Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Australians are spending more time cooling down in their swimming pools now that summer has officially arrived. However, they may find themselves confronted with a distressing sight—wildlife frequently getting stuck in their pools, unable to escape.
Just recently, a resident of the Gold Coast had a close call when he spotted a tiny snake clinging to a floating cleaning pipe in his backyard pool. At first glance, the snake could easily be mistaken for a worm due to its small and slim appearance. However, it was identified as a mildly venomous marsh snake, which is native to Australia.
While this particular snake was fortunate enough to be rescued in time, many reptiles are not as lucky and end up drowning in pools without any means of escape. According to Cory Kerewaro from Reptile Relocation Sydney, these animals often get stuck in pools accidentally, as they swim to the edge in an attempt to find a way out.
To prevent wildlife from getting trapped in pools, it is crucial to provide an escape route for them. Kerewaro suggests using wildlife ramps that sit on the side of the pool and ramp down into the water, allowing the animals to rest or push themselves out. Homemade solutions such as bodyboards and weighted pool noodles can also be effective.
The sad reality is that many reptiles and other wildlife suffer in swimming pools, unable to free themselves. As Australians enjoy their time by the pool this summer, it is important to be vigilant and take steps to ensure the safety of these animals.
If you have a story about a wildlife encounter, you can reach out to Sophie Coghill at sophie.coghill@yahooinc.com. Additionally, you can follow Yahoo News Australia on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube for more updates. Let’s make this summer a safe and enjoyable season for both humans and wildlife alike.