A snake-catcher can save you a lot of trouble in several scenarios only if you know how to use a snake hook to catch a snake. We are focusing on the snake hook because the instrument is best for situations where you want to get a hold of a beefy serpent, be it a pet or a wild one, without getting too close.
I have seen the reptiles getting aggressive on various occasions because the handlers didn’t follow the precaution and exact tactics. In other cases, they didn’t pick the right size and style of the tool. With the help of this article, you will come to know how you can safely tackle the creature without getting on its bad side. Man, you don’t want to make an adversary of it, especially if it is a wild, aggressive Australian type.
So, start reading.
The Best Size of the Snake Hook to Catch a Snake
Before you jump to catch a snake with a snake hook, you should know which size and hook style will be best for the job. That largely depends on the weight and species of the snake you plan to tackle; its size is also a key variable. The tool is best for handling serpents that pose a certain degree of risk to the concerned person, for example, aggressive and venomous kinds.
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Small Snake Hooks
These come in multiple variants, ranging from super-lightweight collapsible hooks to feather-light to mini size – the length range from 18-68 cm. Experts use it for capturing hatchlings and little snakes inside confined spaces.
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Strong Snake Hooks
These are golf-style, sturdy snake hooks designed for scooping bulky serpents, like pythons, during herping or field use. They are available between 60 – 90 cm in length; some heavy-duty types may even extend to 46 inches.
A Tip: Pick a hook that is at least 1m long (3 feet) or is extendable – experts believe that a minimum of 3 feet distance puts you out of reach of most snakebites. That will let you modify it according to the snake at hand.
Hook Style
The style of the hook plays a crucial role in lifting and balancing the target snake’s body. You may find these in ‘V’, ‘U’ and ‘L’ shapes.
- Straightforwardly reject V-style if you plan to deal with a bulky serpent.
- Go for U-shape if you are a less experienced sporadic user. It can come in handy in a variety of situations.
- L-shape is best if you have to handle a beefy python.
How to Safely Catch a Snake with a Snake Hook?
Once you have chosen the best snake hook, it is time to put it to use. You must follow some fundamental guidelines if you want to immobilize the troublemaker and you should know how a snake-handling hook works.
Clean Hands
Start off by washing your hands with soap. It will rinse the foreign odour and impurities from your hands. Else, you may unintentionally transfer some disease to the snake, or it may strike you – thinking it’s food instead of your hand.
Avoid Startling It
If you are trying to catch your pet snake, make vibratory noise to inform it of your arrival. Besides, move slowly towards the snake – no erratic movement – to avoid startling it. A scared snake is more likely to attack.
Protective Clothing
You should wear snakeproof boots and thick leather gloves when tackling a snake with a snake catcher tool. It reduces the threat of snakebites.
Precaution: Don’t pick wild snakes with your hands. Plus, don’t thrust your hands inside your pet snake’s cage to capture it. Both cases may lead to painful snakebites.
Handle the Snake Gently
There’s no rocket science involved in handling the serpent with a snake hook, but you may injure it with the curvy head if not careful. Gently slide the hook under the reptile’s body, from its head’s side, to lift it. Keep the curvy-head closer to the middle of its body to distribute weight equally. It will balance the snake and prevent it from sliding off.
Experts recommend that you use snake hooks only for bulky and long snakes. Mini and thin snakes can easily slip off the tool. Tongs are a more viable option for those.
Keep It Off the Ground
Handling and balancing a serpent is easy if it’s suspended mid-air. Keeping it off the ground restricts its mobility, making it difficult to move and strike. If making contact with a serpent doesn’t make you uncomfortable, let it wrap its tail around you, especially if it’s a massive python, or hold its rear end. Professional handlers prefer this tactic because it keeps the snake stable and comfortable.
Standing Position
Always stand behind the creature or diagonal to its head when moving it from its confinement.
Snake Baggers or Container
If you have to transfer the snake to another facility, keep a snake bagger or well-ventilated sizeable container with a lid on the ready. You can drop it inside the bag or container and secure its opening. It will allow you to transport it to your chosen destination without any unpleasant incident.
Wash Hands Again
Once the task is over, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid catching any bacteria or disease.
Conclusion
Snake hooks are a safe choice for handling all sorts of snakes, except the You just need to know the right way to use the tool. A sturdy and long snake catcher will help you safely handle burly serpents, be it for examination or transportation. Just ensure you follow caution and care to avoid startling or injuring it.
