16/03/2025
The Elusive Boomslang of Table Bay: A Safe Relocation
For the past week, the Table Bay area has been on edge. An elusive Boomslang, one of Africa’s most venomous (hemotoxic) snakes, had been spotted weaving in and around the neighborhood. Videos and photos circulated, showing it slithering through gardens and between homes. While the snake’s striking beauty is undeniable, its presence was a cause for concern, as it posed a risk to both the locals and itself.
Today, however, I received the call that would change everything.
There’s something uniquely significant about getting a call regarding a snake sighting. Often, it’s just another "I spotted it hours ago" message, but when Carmen from Raats Drive in Table View reached out, having eyes on the snake in real-time, I knew this was different. The community had already done their part to keep their distance, ensuring the snake was undisturbed. Now, the time had come for a safe relocation, one that would bring peace not only to the neighborhood but also to the snake itself.
When I arrived at the location, I found myself surrounded by the beautiful, lush gardens. Vibrant plants and quiet corners created the perfect habitat for a snake like the Boomslang. However, the presence of pets, small animals, and children made the environment risky for the snake. Even more concerning was the potential for people to act out of panic or ignorance, trying to capture or harm the highly venomous snake themselves.
Fortunately, the relocation went smoothly. Although the snake was understandably stressed, it was safely and carefully captured. It was then transported to a more secure environment, far from human habitation, where it could thrive without the threat of danger.
As I was leaving, a local resident approached me with a smile. "Now I can sleep with my windows open in this heat," they said, clearly relieved. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do.
I’m deeply grateful for the community’s cooperation, quick thinking and vigilance. It’s evident that the people here care about both the safety of their neighbors and the well-being of the wildlife around them.
As for the Boomslang? It’s back in the wild, where it belongs, in a place far less likely to encounter people or be misunderstood as a threat.
This experience serves as a reminder that we can coexist with nature, even with snakes as intimidating as the Boomslang, as long as we approach things with respect and care.
