Our recent Snake Handling Course was a huge hit with Department of Parks and Wildlife staff, Shire staff and as Bob came to us, we were able to offer the opportunity to some interested residents too. The Shire was looking to have their new Rangers trained in snake rescue and relocation, so with some investigations we spoke to Bob Cooper, from Snake Rescue and Relocation in Perth and facilitated three one day training sessions in Kununurra. |
| The day long session was targeted at anyone who had a desire to become proficient in snake handling with a view to safely locating a snake in a home or yard, and relocating it to somewhere safe for both the snake and people. Bob has a long and respected history in regards to wildlife rescue and handling. His day long course covers topics such as the psychology behind snake and human behaviours which may lead to snake bites and threats to both snakes and people. The course was also an opportunity for residents who have an interest in wildlife and reptiles to learn more about the risks and how to safely find and relocate snakes from their own properties. DPaW Wildlife Officer, Steve Leeder spoke to the participants and asked them to consider the possibility of nominating their names as registered, trained snake handlers to a list DPaW are looking at compliling of volunteers who are willing to assist others when they find a snake on their property or in their homes. |
Bob brought along some of his most venomous snakes, including a brown snake, tiger snake, death adder and dugite as well as two non-venomous Stimson pythons, many of which are found naturally here in the East Kimberley, however the inclusion of the dugite (not naturally found up here) means that the course qualifies participants in snake handling across the entire state.
Bob is a regular visitor to the East Kimberley and is. Potentially looking at another round of training days in July. If you are interested in participating in the next round of training, please register your interest with us or keep an eye on our Facebook page, website or newsletter.