Residents and visitors to Mt Buller are reminded that the warmer weather also means the presence of snakes in the area.

Whilst uncommon, we must appreciate that we share our alpine environment with snakes. The two that you are most likely to come across are the White-Lipped Snake Drysdalia coronoides and the Highlands Copperhead Austrelaps ramsayi.

Highlands or Alpine Copperhead
Active in summer usually during daylight hours. Be respectful and reassured: while disturbing a 1.2m long copperhead on a path or in the grass might come as a big shock, this snake is not eager to bite unless cornered or frightened; why waste energy and venom on a target too large to swallow when it can gulp down a frog or small lizard? March is probably the time you don't want to surprise a copperhead - that's when the female gives birth to 9 to 31 live young.

White-Lipped Snake
Active in summer usually during the night (though on occasion may be spotted during the day). Most common alpine snake. Shortest at only 40cm (maximum). Very pretty snake; bite is painful but not deadly. Most commonly found where small skinks are plentiful (favourite dietary item). Live young are born to females in March and do not become independent from their Mums until they are 3 years old.

The below points should assist you in the event that you do see a snake:
Do not interfere with the snake.

• If the snake is aware of your presence, it will move away from you. Allow enough time for the snake to retreat some distance before continuing on your walk.
• If the snake is unaware of your presence and you wish to continue, leave the trail to walk around the snake and return to the trail at a safe distance away.
• If you are concerned, return the way you came.
• In the case of a snake bite, pressure-immobilisation first aid is very effective - information on this can be found online.

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to kill a snake - it is often dangerous and generally unnecessary. If you have any queries please contact the ARMB on the details below.

P: 03 5777 6077
E: info@mtbuller.com.au