Residents warned after 10 Puff Adders wash up on Jeffreys Bay beach
Residents and beachgoers in Jeffreys Bay have been urged to remain alert after several dead venomous snakes were discovered along the coastline.
Black News 
Residents and beachgoers in Jeffreys Bay have been urged to remain alert after several dead venomous snakes were discovered along a stretch of coastline between Kabeljous Beach and Albatross Beach following recent flooding in the area.
According to Oribi Animal Rescue, 10 dead puff adders and two olive snakes have been found washed up on the shoreline after floodwaters swept debris and wildlife into the ocean before currents returned them to the beaches.
The rescue organisation warned that even dead puff adders remain highly dangerous, as their venom can still pose a serious threat if handled.
Received several reports
Emma-Lisa Steyn of Oribi Animal Rescue said the organisation received reports of snakes along the coastline and appealed to the public to avoid touching or approaching any snakes found on the beach.
She warned that children and dogs may mistake dead snakes for ropes, sticks or toys, increasing the risk of accidental contact.
Beachgoers are being advised to exercise caution while walking along affected areas, especially where seaweed, driftwood and storm debris have accumulated.
Residents who encounter a snake that is not moving are asked not to touch it. Instead, they should place a stick upright near the snake to mark the location and contact Oribi Animal Rescue so it can be safely removed and disposed of.
If a snake is still alive or moving, the public is urged to keep a safe distance and immediately contact trained snake handlers.
Hazardous debris
Steyn, who is listed by the African Snakebite Institute as a registered snake removal contact for Jeffreys Bay and surrounding areas, assists the Kouga community with snake removals and relocations.
Oribi Animal Rescue has reiterated its call for vigilance as clean-up efforts continue after the floods, warning that additional wildlife and hazardous debris may still wash ashore in the coming days.
