What to do if you encounter a snake

When asked what concerns them most about hiking, many new hikers list snakes near the top. It’s a natural worry – but the good news is that while encounters with snakes are possible – and even likely over time – actual bites are rare. Snakes are generally shy and will usually try to avoid humans. Most bites happen when people accidentally get too close, or more commonly, when they attempt to handle, catch, or kill a snake – especially at home or work. On the trail, if you give snakes space and respect, they’ll usually slip away without an issue.

Common snakes in Perth and South West WA

Two venomous snakes hikers are most likely to encounter are dugites and tiger snakes.

Dugites are typically brown, but can also vary in colour. They can be seen in a wide range of habitats.

Tiger snakes are usually darker, with yellow or cream bands on their bellies. They are strong swimmers and are often found near water.

Both species can grow over a metre in length; however, identifying them accurately in the wild can be tricky. Snakes don’t always display typical colouring, and sightings are often brief. The safest approach? Treat every snake as potentially dangerous and give it space.

Seasonal snake activity

• Spring and autumn: This is dugite hatching season. Young dugites, often with black heads and light brown bodies, are just as venomous as adults. Leave them be.
• Winter: Snakes don’t hibernate, but cooler weather makes them sluggish. They often bask on open paths and trails to warm up. Tiger snakes, being water-lovers, are still active near rivers, lakes, and wetlands year-round.

Essential items to carry

Always take the following on any bushwalk or hike:

• Two pressure immobilisation bandages – ideally the type marked to indicate correct pressure. They cost around $10 and can save a life.
• Mobile phone and/or personal locator beacon (PLB) – especially vital in remote areas where reception may be limited.

What to do if you see a snake

• Stop and stay still.
• Slowly back away. Don’t make any sudden movements.
• Do not approach, poke, or try to move the snake. It’s illegal to harm snakes, and this is when most bites occur.
• Stay alert. Scan the trail ahead. A coiled snake can look like a stick or leaf litter.
• Wear appropriate gear. Solid footwear with ankle protection is ideal.
• Stick to the trail. Avoid long grass or dense bush without proper protection (boots, gaiters, long pants).
• Use trekking poles. These can help alert snakes to your presence.
• Watch where you place your hands. Especially when sitting on logs or collecting firewood.

What to do if you’re bitten

If you are bitten by a snake, stay calm and still. Most bites occur on the legs or arms. Snake venom travels through the lymphatic system, not the blood stream. Movement will move the poison around the body. The most important thing you can do is to stay still.

• Do not wash or clean the wound. Do not try to suck the poison out. Do not remove or discard clothing.
• Call for help through your phone (mobile/satellite) or activate your PLB.
• Stay still while waiting for help.
• Apply two pressure immobilisation bandages:
  • one at the bite location
  • the other from the foot or hand up to the groin or elbow armpit.
• Splint the limb if possible. The goal is to keep it still.
• Mark the bandage where the bite occurred to make it easy for first responders to identify the bite area. There is no need to identify the snake. Medical staff will use test kits to determine which anti-venom to administer, or they’ll use a universal brown snake anti-venom.

There is no need to identify the snake. Medical staff will use test kits to determine which antivenom to administer, or they’ll use a universal brown snake anti-venom.

Be prepared

Know what do when, not if, you come across a snake when out hiking. If you hike regularly in Perth or South West WA, you will likely see a snake at some point.

Don’t panic. With awareness and preparation, you can enjoy the bush safely and appreciate these remarkable animals from a safe distance. In the unlikely event that you or someone you know is bitten by a snake, being prepared might save yours or someone else’s life.

Author: Kathy Miller

Published April 2025