Harley Jones attracted the attention of the North Shore Times after being called to capture an exceptionally large Red-bellied Black Snake in Pymble. The animal's size made the job visually striking, but Harley approached it in the same controlled way as any venomous-snake call-out: clear the immediate area, assess escape routes and use suitable professional equipment.
Size made the story unusual—not the safety procedure
A large snake can be intimidating, but size alone does not determine how a handler should respond. Species, body position, nearby cover, people and pets, and the animal's available movement all matter. Harley maintained distance until the scene was controlled, then completed the capture without turning the property's understandable concern into unnecessary commotion.
Red-bellied Black Snakes on Sydney’s North Shore
Red-bellied Black Snakes are venomous native snakes and can occur around waterways, damp gullies, bushland margins and suitable suburban habitat. They are recognisable to experienced observers, but a brief view of a dark snake is not enough for a safe public identification. Residents should never move closer to confirm a red belly or attempt a capture because the animal appears slow or calm.
What this newspaper-covered call-out shows
The media coverage provides independent evidence that Harley has handled notable snake-removal jobs across the North Shore. More importantly, the Pymble capture demonstrates practical scene control, specialist equipment and hands-on experience with venomous native snakes. Harley's priority is to protect people and pets while treating the animal humanely.
If a snake is present at a Pymble property, bring pets and children inside, stay well back and keep sight of the location only from a safe position. Call Harley on 0411 103 488. If anyone may have been bitten, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and keep the person still.