In Sydney, Australia, an unusual incident unfolded when David Stein discovered more than 100 venomous red-bellied black snakes in his backyard. After noticing around six snakes moving into a pile of mulch, he contacted Reptile Relocation Sydney. Dylan Cooper, a snake catcher, arrived and, with Stein's assistance, captured a total of 102 snakes, including adults and newborns. Some of the adult snakes, which are pregnant or gravid, gave birth during the capture, adding 29 newborns to the haul. The final count was five adult snakes and 97 offspring.
Cory Kerewaro, owner of Reptile Relocation Sydney, noted that the captured snakes remain in their care, as government authorities have approved their release into a national park to ensure they stay away from humans. Kerewaro said: "Because there was such a large number, obviously people were a bit concerned where 100 snakes were going to go." The snakes will be relocated to a remote area. Kerewaro added: "They'll be far enough away to avoid any human interaction: 100 snakes are going into the middle of the bush in the middle of nowhere."
Scott Eipper, an expert on Australian snakes, explained that such gatherings of gravid red-belly blacks might occur for safety reasons or due to habitat shortages. He mentioned that the recent hot weather in Sydney could have triggered the birthing. Eipper said: "This is an isolated incident. It's certainly a very rare occurrence." Eipper also said that litters typically range from 4 to 35 offspring.
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Stein's property is 3.5 acres in size and located in suburban Horsley Park. This event follows a prior incident in December when Stein's Jack Russell terrier, Belle, was bitten by a juvenile red-bellied black snake. She survived after receiving antivenom treatment. Aware that snakes might return to the area, Stein plans to remove the mulch pile soon to prevent future snake congregations. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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