In an unusual event in a Sydney backyard, wildlife handlers discovered and rescued 102 venomous red-bellied black snakes from a mulch pile. The owner, David Stein, reported seeing several snakes, which led to the quick response of snake catcher Dylan Cooper. Among the group were five adults and numerous newborns, two of which gave birth during the rescue. Experts are puzzled by this phenomenon, suggesting possible reasons like safety in numbers or environmental factors like severe heat; this occurrence is deemed rare in such large numbers.
Scott Eipper, who has written several books about Australian snakes, said pregnant red-belly blacks may congregate for safety or due to a lack of suitable habitat to give birth. "This is an isolated incident. It's certainly a very rare occurrence."
Cory Kerewaro, owner of Reptile Relocation Sydney, noted the unusually high number of captured snakes, saying, "But to have this many venomous snakes, no one's come across it."
David Stein, the homeowner, expressed his shock stating, "Just seeing that amount in one group, it gives you a bit of the shudders."
Kerewaro explained the unique nature of the event, stating, "You can get a decent number like that when the babies are hatching... This is an isolated incident. It's certainly a very rare occurrence."
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