A Sunshine Coast resident’s home security system got an unusual upgrade recently when a large coastal carpet python settled in strike mode beside his front-door camera.
Dan Busstra, aka Snake Catcher Dan, was called in to remove the reptile, which had wound itself around two large sensor lights. The python treated him as an unwelcome guest.
“The homeowner wasn’t too worried about the snake but because he’s got a young daughter, he was just a bit concerned having a big snake that size hanging around the front door, so he asked me to help relocate it,” Mr Busstra said.
He said the python would likely have scared off any intruders.
“He was hanging around right next to the security camera. I had another job recently where there was a snake on a security screen, so we’re rolling with the security snake theme.”
The snake may have been after food or warmth.
“It had potentially found an animal it wants to eat: there may have been rodents running past. Or he’s gone up there to get some sunlight and a bit of warmth,” Mr Busstra said.
When it came time to remove the python from the front of the home at Woombye, it lashed out.
“It actually got a bit defensive,” Mr Busstra said.
“I had to stay calm and keep my distance so it couldn’t bite me, gently convincing it off the light before I could safely remove it. It did try to bite me a couple of times.”
Mr Busstra said plenty of snakes were active right now.
“We’re just getting into the start of the breeding season, so a lot of male snakes are moving around looking for females,” he said, before offering advice for anyone who spots one.
“Keep your calm and keep your distance. Just because you see a snake doesn’t mean it has to be relocated: sometimes the safest thing to do is leave it be. But if you’ve got kids or pets and are concerned for its safety or yours, reach out to your local snake catcher for advice.”
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