(haipo) – A viper was caught on the second floor of a residential building, in a window, on Wedgwood Street in Haifa. The snake arrived chasing a rat that was there. Snake catcher Dagan Erez was called to the scene and managed to catch the viper, while the rat managed to escape safely.
The viper snake – a tangible danger to residents
The incident that occurred last Thursday on Wedgwood Street in Haifa, at 21:30 PM, clearly demonstrates the danger posed to residents by vipers, especially when it comes to a densely populated residential area. The viper, which is known for its strong venom, can cause serious injury and even death, especially in children and the elderly. The fact that the snake was caught on the second floor and in a window of a police station indicates its ability to enter unexpected places in pursuit of its food. Residents are urged to be careful and maintain vigilance in their residential area, especially during the summer when the snakes are more active.
The importance of the viper snake in the urban ecosystem
Despite the danger, the viper snake plays a significant role in the urban ecosystem. These snakes feed on rats, which are a serious nuisance in cities in general and in Haifa in particular. The larger the rat population, the greater the chance of snakes looking for food. Therefore, the presence of the viper helps regulate the rat population and significantly reduces the health and sanitation problems caused by them. Maintaining a clean city and effective rat control may contribute to reducing unwanted encounters with vipers.
What to do if you encounter a viper
The Israeli summer brings with it more encounters with snakes, especially in the northern and central regions of the country, where viper snakes are common. Residents are advised to be especially careful when walking on forested or tangled paths and not to put their hands in bushes or garbage piles where snakes may hide. In the event of identifying a snake near a residence, a professional snake catcher should be called immediately, avoid attempts to capture the snake yourself, and keep children and animals away from the area until the danger has been completely removed.
Why isn't it recorded where it was released and maybe the municipality should put up signs warning of poisonous snakes?
At the city hall
You have to be careful of the ventilation openings in the police station rooms! A few weeks ago, a young Zaman came in and tried to grab one of our parrots.
This opening is also a doorway to trouble, unwanted guests come in through there. Only luckily it wasn't a viper.
Yes to feeding cats!
Thanks for the thoughtful information and also for the location, close to vegetation. It would be a good idea to require that paths be kept neat and that vegetation be trimmed, which is the responsibility of homeowners in the area. In addition, the reduction of forest areas brings animals to populated areas.
Cats are so important for keeping snakes out of homes
Instead of fining feeders, we should focus on providing nutrition for cats and preventing their poisoning and abuse.
Haifa Municipality I wish someone there would overturn the cruel law preventing feeding
I agree with you, there's nothing like the love of cats.