Residents in Canelands, KwaZulu-Natal, were given quite the scare after a massive 1.8 metre-long black mamba slithered into a home.
Story Summary:
- Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) officers rescued a 1.8-metre black mamba from a home in Canelands, KwaZulu-Natal.
- Black mamba encounters are not uncommon in KZN, particularly in semi-rural areas during warmer months.
- Residents are urged to stay calm, keep their distance, and call for professional help if they encounter snakes in their homes.
Rescuers successfully recover black mamba from Canelands home
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) officers, Nkosinathi (Nathi) Ndaba and Bryson Bisnath, were called out for a rescue mission after the homeowner spotted the dangerous snake hiding between the metal roof sheeting.
RUSA officers arrived swiftly and, after assessing the situation, managed to safely capture the snake without incident.
The black mamba, known for its speed and potent venom, was relocated to a safer environment.
Bodycam footage of the dramatic retrieval operation can be viewed below:
KwaZulu-Natal is home to several snake species, including the notorious black mamba.
Snake encounters in residential areas, particularly during warmer months, are common as snakes venture out for food and shelter.
The black mamba, while highly venomous, will typically avoid human contact unless provoked.
In KZN, homeowners are encouraged to remain cautious, particularly in bushy or semi-rural areas where snake activity may increase.
What to do if you encounter a snake
- Stay calm: Most snakes are not aggressive and will only attack if they feel threatened.
- Keep your distance: Do not try to corner or capture the snake yourself. Snakes will often move away if left alone.
- Call professionals: Reach out to local wildlife rescue services, snake catchers, or organisations like RUSA for assistance.
- Keep pets and children away: Ensure everyone is safe and at a distance from the snake.
