Snake Catcher Appin

Appin combines established rural land with developing residential areas. Do not enter rocky gullies or disturb building materials to search after the animal disappears.

When calling from Appin, explain whether the animal is indoors or outside, whether it remains visible, and whether children, pets, customers, livestock or workers are nearby. Harley can then assess the immediate risk and the safest access.

Around Appin, bushland and rural boundaries, large blocks, sheds, paddocks, rocky gullies and new development edges can create several possible routes and shelter points. Leave those places undisturbed after the snake moves out of sight.

Growth-area estates, creeks and working properties require clear access directions and firm separation from construction or storage areas.

• bushland and rural boundaries: Do not place hands, tools or cameras into gaps around bushland and rural boundaries; report only what you can see safely.
• large blocks: If the snake travels toward large blocks, note which side it entered and leave the area undisturbed.
• sheds: Use sheds as a landmark when explaining the last known position; do not move closer to inspect it.
• paddocks: Tell Harley whether paddocks is open, enclosed, elevated or difficult to access from the street.
• rocky gullies: Keep people and pets away from rocky gullies until the sighting has been assessed.
• new development edges: Identify the safest gate, path or building entrance leading toward new development edges without approaching the animal.

A sighting does not establish that there is a nest or more than one snake. Avoid assumptions about species, numbers or where the animal has gone; preserve the last reliable observation instead.

• Do not surround the snake; let one calm observer remain well back.
• Move bystanders away from the Appin sighting without creating a crowd.
• Watch from a safe position and remember the last feature or boundary where it was visible.
• Never touch, trap, corner, poke or attempt to kill the snake.
• If someone may have been bitten, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and follow the operator’s instructions.

A professional Appin response requires calm scene control, appropriate equipment and lawful handling; Harley operates under NSW General Licence MWL000102655.

Equipment and positioning are selected for the actual Appin setting, with safe capture and humane relocation as the objective.

When no snake can be found, Harley will not pretend the site is certain to be clear. He will identify the remaining uncertainty and provide practical next steps. Read about Harley’s training and experience or review the Greater Sydney snake-removal process.