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REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS |
In our area we have many different reptile and amphibians. The most common reptiles you are likely to encounter on the NSW South Coast are Blue-Tongue Skinks, Garden Skinks, Water Dragons and Jacky-lizards (dragons). We also see Red-Bellied black snakes, Diamond Pythons and Brown snakes. The most common turtle is the Eastern Long-Necked turtle.
HANDLING NATIVE REPTILES
We recommend against handling any native reptiles for your safety and theirs. Some of our snakes are highly venemous and a high percentage of snake bites are inflicted on people who are attempting to handle or injure the snake. In most cases, leave well alone and if they are injured or in an inappropriate place, call a wildlife group or a snake-catcher - as both have training, experience (and snake-bite kits). |
Turtle being released © WRSC Gavin Swan.
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Other Information
- It is an offence to take native reptiles or amphibians from the wild without permission from NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
- It is an offence to harm, kill or trade any native reptile or amphibian in NSW
- Do not handle frogs. If you must, use clean, wet hands as they are susceptible to bacteria carried on the human skin
- Some reptiles go into shock after trauma. BEWARE: Whenthey emerge from shock, they can become active and aggressive.
- Many reptiles carry ticks. Generally, one or two ticks on a reptile poses no threat and will eventually drop off without any help.
- Some lizards eat snails, so if you want to have a lizard-friendly garden do not use snail bait as it may poison the backyard lizareds.
- It is important that people be wary of snakes and take proper precautions when outdoors between September to May.
- Snakes aren’t normally aggressive and will only bite when provoked or hurt.
- Wildlife Rescue South Coast suggests if you see a snake, leave it alone and walk away.