Snakes and legless lizards seek shelter from rain in homes

The recent fires in Baynton hills and a lack of rain have prompted an increase in the number of snakes and legless lizards finding their way into Karratha homes.

Pilbara Wildlife Carers Association spokeswomen Rose Best said with many areas left bare, wildlife had no choice but to come into built-up areas looking for food, water and shelter.

"We have had many animals, including our scaly and crawly friends, found in people's homes, pools, schools and businesses," she said.

"This will include snakes, but a lot of these have just been legless lizards mistaken for snakes."

Ms Best said there were several characteristics that distinguished legless lizards from snakes.

"Legless lizards possess eyelids, external ear openings, have a lack of broad belly scales, a notched rather than forked tongue, and have a very long tail," she said.

"Snakes, on the other hand, have a long body and short tail."

Raving Critters snake catcher Mel Ellul urged the public not to attempt to kill snakes or remove any form of native wildlife found in town.

"You need not fear or kill them, but rather call one of s volunteers to come out," she said.

"We will happily remove them and our service is free."

If you find injured fauna, please contact Pilbara Wildlife Carers Association on 043 892 4842.

To call a snake catcher, contact Raving Critters on 0421 970 333 or visit their Facebook page.