does melbourne have snakes Page 289

Yes—Melbourne absolutely has snakes, because Australia, and because long grass and creek lines don’t read municipal boundaries.

Common species around the metro area include the Tiger Snake, Eastern Brown Snake and Lowland Copperhead, especially near wetlands, creeks and coastal scrub.

They’re most active in warmer months, so keep dogs leashed on bush tracks, stick to paths, and if you see one, back away like you’ve just remembered you left the oven on.

If a snake turns up at home, don’t play hero—call a licensed snake catcher or Wildlife Victoria; they’re the ones with the bag and the calm voice.