Snake on the run: authorities ratchet up alert level
A bite from a rattlesnake spotted on the loose in Southampton last week would constitute a medical emergency and require immediate treatment, the Ministry of Public Works and Environment said on Wednesday.
A photograph of the reptile taken on Friday in the area of Gibbs Hill Road was verified by local officials, with two independent snake experts identifying it as the highly venomous eastern diamondback rattlesnake — estimated from photographs to be between 1.2 and 1.5 metres long (between 4ft and 5ft). Its sex has not yet been confirmed.
A government spokeswoman said that efforts to capture the reptile included putting out snake traps and rat-bait stations, to be monitored from a distance.
Seeking additional support has not been ruled out.
She said that while the snake generally avoids contact with humans, members of the public should not approach, or attempt to capture or kill the species if they spot it, but immediately call 911.
Members of the public should do the following if bitten by a snake:
• Immediately call 911
• Move away from the animal
• Remain calm, still and keep the affected limb at heart level
• Remove rings, watches and tight clothing before swelling begins
• Follow instructions from emergency responders
• Photograph the snake from a distance or note what it looked like
• Avoid alcohol
They should not:
• Attempt to catch or kill the snake
• Cut the wound or try to suck out the venom
• Apply tourniquet, ice or electric shock
• Take medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen unless directed by a doctor
The ministry said on Sunday that precautionary measures included the sourcing of appropriate antivenom, which the Bermuda Hospitals Board confirmed yesterday is in its internal dispensary.
Residents in the area of Gibbs Hill Road remained on high alert this week. One said she was keeping “extra cautious” as she tended her garden.
The spokeswoman said: “Efforts to locate the animal have included site verification, expert consultation, notifications to nearby residents, and co-ordination with first responders and healthcare services.”
She warned the public that searches and attempts to capture the animal posed significant safety risks.
A bakery owner has capitalised on the drama of the elusive diamondback by introducing rattlesnake-themed cookies.
Alicia Tucker, the owner of The Tuck Shop, added the decorated shortbreads to her menu to rave reviews.
She said: “I try to keep things trendy and capitalise off things that are happening.
“I usually focus on more positive things, but I wouldn't say that this is positive.”
Ms Tucker said she got the idea from a joke by social-media personality Mr Fotogenik, who released a skit about a rattlesnake catcher shortly after news of the rogue reptile broke last week.
Ms Tucker recognised the situation was serious but said she thought the snacks could help spread levity and awareness.
She added: “People thought it was cute. One lady said, ‘Oh, my grandson's been talking about this rattlesnake that's on the island, let me get him some cookies’.
“So people seem to be liking the idea.”
Ms Tucker said she sold “quite a bit” yesterday and would have them on the menu until the snake was caught.
The rattlesnake cookies sell for $7 each at The Tuck Shop locations in the Botanical Gardens and Southampton.
• Additional reporting by Sékou Hendrickson
Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said: “As the search for the snake continues, it is important that we have antivenom on the island as part of our preparedness measures.
“Being bitten by a snake poses a significant health risk, and ensuring that the appropriate clinical resources are available is a critical step in safeguarding both the public and our emergency responders.
“We urge everyone in the affected area to follow all safety guidance issued by the authorities, as community co-operation remains vital while this investigation is under way.”
The government spokeswoman said that there have been no confirmed sightings of the animal since Friday and that further reports, including images of suspected tracks, have been determined to “not match the movement” of the species.
Rattlesnakes feed on small mammals, birds and occasionally reptiles.
They use heat-sensing pits located between their eyes and nostrils to detect warm-blooded prey, especially in low light conditions.
Their rattle serves as a warning signal to deter threats and predators, and they will typically bite only when provoked or threatened.
Anyone who spots the snake is urged to call 911.
Since the sighting last week, a combined effort to find the snake has been launched, with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources joining forces with the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo.
It is unknown how the animal, listed as a prohibited species under the Invasive Alien Species Act 2021 along with all other snakes, arrived in Bermuda, but it could have been imported accidentally through cargo or illegally.
The species is not egg-laying, but gives birth to live young.
• For additional guidance about rattlesnakes, see Related Media
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