Antivenom and other protective tools are being sourced to prepare teams that are working to find a rattlesnake believed to be on the island, the Government said today.

The Ministry of Public Works and environment provided an update to the public and said that the investigation continued into a reported possible sighting of the creature — deemed credible.

Teams from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo are involved in “co-ordinated monitoring and response efforts”, it added.

The ministry advised on Friday that there was a possible sighting of the snake in the area of Gibbs Hill Road, Southampton.

It said then that there had been no reported injuries and authorities were treating the matter “with the utmost seriousness while efforts continue to locate and safely remove the animal”.

The ministry added this morning: “As part of standard precautionary measures, authorities are actively sourcing appropriate antivenom and additional protective equipment to ensure responders are fully prepared should the animal be located.

“Residents in the surrounding area are encouraged to remain alert and continue following previously issued safety guidance.

“If you believe you have seen the snake, immediately contact 911 and keep a safe distance.

“Do not attempt to approach, capture or harm the animal. If it can be done safely, maintain visual contact from a distance until authorities arrive.

“Avoid reaching into dense vegetation, under debris or into enclosed spaces where visibility is limited.

“Pet owners should keep pets indoors or closely supervised.”

Jaché Adams, the public works and environment minister, reassured residents that public safety was the top priority.

“Our teams are working diligently with partner agencies to ensure a careful and co-ordinated response,” he added.

“We appreciate the community’s vigilance and co-operation as we continue to investigate this sighting.”

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said: “As a precaution, we are ensuring that appropriate medical resources, including antivenom, are available should they be required.

“While the risk to the public remains low, preparedness is essential and we encourage residents to follow all safety guidance.”

The Encyclopaedia Britannica website said that a rattlesnake is any of 33 species of venomous vipers characterised by a segmented rattle at the tip of the tail that produces a buzzing sound when vibrated.

The creatures are found from southern Canada to central Argentina but are most abundant in the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

“Rattlesnakes are not aggressive and will not attack humans if unprovoked; in fact, they are quite shy and timid,” the website added.

“However, they are venomous and can be dangerous if molested or handled.”

It said that with improved methods of treatment, a rattlesnake bite is no longer the threat to life that it once was.

However, the website added that medical assessment should always be sought after any bite, which tends to be “very painful”.