If you enjoy walking through Sydney Olympic Park’s bushland areas, you may come across one of Australia’s most recognisable native reptiles- the Red-bellied Black Snake.

These snakes are shy and will usually retreat if they sense people nearby. Most sightings occur during the warmer months, particularly in breeding season when males travel widely in search of mates.

Red-bellied Black Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem, feeding on frogs, lizards and rodents. Like all native wildlife, they are protected under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Visitors are reminded to stay alert when walking in natural areas, keep pets on a leash, avoid long grass and log piles, and never approach a snake. If you see one, back away slowly and give it space. In the event of a suspected bite, call 000 immediately.

Sightings can be reported to enquiries@sopa.nsw.gov.au from a safe distance to assist with wildlife monitoring.