What attracts snakes to your yard? 6 things a snake catcher sees most

Key points

• Snakes are drawn to gardens that offer food, shelter and warmth, according to South Gippsland snake catcher Jake Condotta. Messy garden beds, compost heaps and long grass attract the rodents, frogs and lizards snakes eat.
• Bird seed, pet food, ponds and piles of timber can also draw them in. Condotta says people should keep their distance from snakes and never try to catch or kill them.
• If someone is bitten, they should call 000 immediately.