‘Snakes, Baby Squirrels, Birds’: Grand Strand’s Snake Chaser Witnesses Surge in Animal Relocation Requests After Debby
Storm Aftermath Invites Unwanted Neighborhood Guests
Dramatic wind and water level rises in the wake of Tropical Storm Debby are causing a sharp increase in calls to animal trapper Hayden Cavender, whose job ranges from handling slippery snakes to frightened baby squirrels and displaced birds. Known locally as the ‘snake chaser’, Cavender has reported an increase in requests for his services of as much as 15-20% after such storms. “We’re prepared,” he said. “High winds knock animals out of their nests and rising waters push everybody up and out to higher land.”
Multiple Snake Sightings
Among the most unnerved are residents of the Cottages at Tilghman Beach in North Myrtle Beach. In less than two days, Cavender has removed four cottonmouth snakes from the community. Local resident Tim Frahm confirms that these disturbing sightings are notable but not unexpected. “That doesn’t surprise me,” he said. “Especially at night, you better be careful around the ponds or in your doorways.”
According to Frahm, the Homeowners Association regularly sends out precautionary notes to the residents after it rains, cautioning everyone about potential snake encounters.
Warning to Local Residents
Cavender anticipates these calls will rise over the next week as the water recedes, and animals search for new homes once displaced by the storm. He advises local residents to be careful but not to panic at the sight of snakes, some of which might be venomous.
“They won’t come and outright try to grab you or try to attack you or try to bite you,” he advised. “They will bite once they feel threatened, cornered, and like they don’t have any other option. They can’t run, they don’t have arms and legs to kick and fight, so their next option is to bite.”
Therefore, the snake chaser recommends keeping a safe distance from these reptiles or walking around them. Adding to his advisory, he insists people to wear closed-toed shoes outside, post-storm, to avoid potential run-ins with wildlife displaced by the storm.
Stay Vigilant
As the offenders slither, scamper, or fly into new neighborhoods, locals are urged to stay vigilant, stay safe, and trust in professionals to restore the natural order.
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