Queensland Snake Wranglers Train to Handle Australia‘s Most Venomous reptiles
A remote Queensland backblocks shed is the unlikely classroom where Australians are learning to safely interact with some of the world’s deadliest snakes. A recent intensive course led by experienced herpetologists Julian Hay and Zdenek veverka is equipping students with the skills – and a healthy dose of respect – needed to handle highly venomous species like death adders and inland taipans.
The demand for skilled snake handlers is rising across Australia as human populations expand into snake habitats, increasing the potential for dangerous encounters. The course, which draws participants from career-changers to aspiring wildlife professionals, aims to mitigate risks for both people and snakes by fostering responsible handling techniques and a deep understanding of reptile behavior.
Hay, a veteran snake handler, emphasizes the ever-present danger, recounting his own near-fatal experience: a three-day coma at age 21 after being bitten by a death adder. He warns students that a snake bite doesn’t require visible blood to be venomous, a mistake that has proven fatal for several colleagues. “be careful, you can get bitten by a snake in a bag,” Hay cautions, revealing he’s been bitten twice himself.
The course provides ample first-hand evidence of the risks involved. Students learn to identify venomous species, understand snake behavior, and practice safe handling procedures - always prioritizing caution and respect.
Harley Gonzalez, a former construction worker transitioning to a career working with snakes, described the course as “humbling.” “I’ve always wanted to jump on snakes, catch them…Anacondas, inland taipans, you name it, I’ve always been obsessed with snakes ever since I was young,” Gonzalez said. Though, he now plans a “more grounded approach,” seeking further experience alongside seasoned professionals before attempting autonomous snake removals. “I’m not just gonna go out on my own and take a brown snake out of someone’s bonnet…I’ll do that with someone first.”
