"Snakes awake in hot winter"

SNAKES have stayed active through winter in Tasmania for the first time.

Climate change as a result of global warming is probably to blame for snakes shunning their normal dormant period, says herpetologist Ian Norton.

"We've had people sighting snakes throughout the winter period," Mr Norton said. "This is going to continue in the years ahead if the climate-change trend keeps on."

Since the official snake season started in September, the Reptile Rescue service has had 36 call-outs to retrieve unwanted visitors from homes.

"We can't keep up with demand," Mr Norton said...

Tasmania has three types of snake -- the tiger, copperhead and white-lipped.

Parks and Wildlife said snakes were unlikely to attack unless threatened.

Cat owners should attach bells to collars to prevent cats bringing snakes home.