BE ON the look out this spring for the top five snakes coming to a backyard near you.
Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers have announced the top five snakes found in the Tweed area as it is the time of year when snakes come out of hibernation, start to feed and are on the hunt for a mate.
They are the coastal carpet python, brown tree snake, green tree snake, yellow-faced whip snake and the eastern brown snake.
The most common species found in the Tweed is the non-venomous coastal carpet python, while the eastern brown snake, also known as the common brown snake, is the second most venomous snake in Australia.
Reptile coordinator at Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers, Sue Johnson, said her No.1 tip for Tweed residents when they see a snake this spring is to ignore it and keep well away.
"Use your common sense; when you're going into bush land wear covered shoes, keep your grass cut low and remove piles of rocks where snakes could hide.
Ms Johnson said little things like leaving the leftover dog and cat food out the back can tempt other animals onto your property that snakes will eat.
Volunteer for group Louise Bally said you will usually spot a snake in the sun trying to digest what they have just eaten.
"We get calls from residents, worried the snake is going to start harassing the cat or eat the dog, it's a common misconception because the reality is the exact opposite," Ms Bally said.
Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers urge people to report any incidents with snakes and household pets as the snakes immune system is not equipped to handle the cat or dogs saliva and will need an immediate dosage of antibiotics.
"If you see a snake that is hurt or injured in anyway, ring us, we will capture it and take it to the vet at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary," Ms Bally said.
For more information on how to identify the newest member in your neighbourhood head to: tvwc.org.au.