Overseas help to be deployed to locate rattlesnake
A specialist team will arrive on the island this week to bolster efforts to track down a rattlesnake first seen last month in Southampton.
A spokesman for the Ministry of Public Works and Environment said that the team will be supported by two dogs trained to scent the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake.
The team will search throughout and around Gibbs Hill Road, where the snake was first seen on June 26, mostly at dawn and dusk and at times overnight.
The comments came after the ministry received a report of a possible encounter with the reptile in the area of Fairmont Southampton and Turtle Hill golf course on Saturday.
A spokesman for the resort said: “Following a report from golfers on Saturday, Fairmont Southampton immediately contacted the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, who inspected the area and found no evidence of a snake.
“As a precaution, we have temporarily restricted access to the area while the department completes its investigation.
“We will continue to work closely with the Government of Bermuda and follow their guidance.”
The ministry spokesman said that the report was based on “several individuals hearing what they believed to be a rattling sound in long grass”.
He added: “As no visual confirmation was made, the report cannot be confirmed as a snake sighting.”
He said there had been no confirmed sightings of the snake since June — and that a retired Bermuda police officer and a K9 handler would assist the team and dogs from overseas with logistics while speaking directly with residents.
The spokesman said: “Residents living in and around the search areas are advised that the team may request permission to enter nearby private properties.
“The ministry asks residents for their co-operation should access be required, and advises them that search activity involving the dogs may take place near their homes.”
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 continues to investigate credible snake sightings and encouraged the public to report any findings to the appropriate authorities.
The Royal Gazette reached out to the Fairmont Southampton and the Ministry of Public Works and Environment with further queries.
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