Specialists — human and canine — from the US have started searching for a rattlesnake seen in Southampton last month.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Public Works and Environment said that Robert Nozika and Sarah Boese, the owners of National Canine Facility, arrived on the island yesterday with two Labrador retrievers, K9 Yak and K9 Q.

The dogs are trained to scent an Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, which was seen on June 26 in the area of Gibbs Hill Road.

The team’s search for the reptile began last night and continued this morning.

They will mostly search for the snake at dawn and dusk, when it the species is generally most active, but also at other times throughout a ten-day period.

The ministry spokesman said: “If the snake is not located during that period, the Government will further assess its options.”

There have been no sightings of the snake since June 26 but residents in the Gibbs Hill, Lighthouse Road and Lighthouse Lane areas were asked to remain vigilant throughout the search period.

Anyone who sees the snake should immediately call 911, keep a safe distance and avoid approaching or attempting to capture the animal.

The spokesman added: “The specialist team may request permission to search private properties with the dogs.

“Residents are urged to co-operate where access is requested.

“A retired Bermuda Police Service officer and canine handler will accompany the visiting team, assist with the search operation and liaise directly with residents where access to private property may be required.”