Full Breakdown
Queensland Snake Catcher Bitten by Eastern Brown Snake in Backyard Incident
12/30/2025, 11:17:02 PM
Incident Overview
Mikayla, a professional snake catcher from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7, experienced a serious incident on December 21, 2025, when she was bitten by an eastern brown snake (Pseudonaja textilis) in her own backyard. The bite occurred while she was walking barefoot and not paying attention to her surroundings. Mikayla described the moment as a “freak accident,” stating, “I stood on something, and I felt a sharp pain in my left foot.” Following the bite, she quickly moved away from the snake and called her father for assistance.
Medical Response and Symptoms
Within minutes of the bite, Mikayla began to exhibit severe symptoms, including abdominal pain, vomiting, profuse sweating, and high blood pressure. She was transported to the hospital, where tests confirmed she had been envenomated. Medical staff administered two vials of antivenom, and she experienced only a mild allergic reaction. Despite this, she reported significant weakness in her left leg, which left her unable to walk without assistance for over a week.
Snake Behavior and Public Awareness
Mikayla emphasized that her intention was not to vilify snakes due to this incident. She noted that snakes, including the eastern brown, typically flee when threatened and bite only as a last resort. “There is never any reason to kill a snake; leave them be, and they will flee,” she stated. This perspective is particularly important given the rising number of snakebite incidents in Queensland, which increased from 1,094 cases in 2023 to 1,257 in 2024, marking a 15 percent rise.
The Eastern Brown Snake's Dangers
The eastern brown snake is recognized as one of the deadliest snakes in Australia, capable of causing fatalities in less than 30 minutes due to its potent venom, which can disrupt blood clotting and affect the nervous system. According to Professor Bryan Fry from the University of Queensland, these snakes are responsible for the highest number of snake-related deaths in the country, although such incidents are rare. The last reported snakebite fatality occurred on November 27, 2024, involving a 16-year-old boy who collapsed after being bitten.
Conclusion
Mikayla's experience serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by snakes in Australia and the importance of awareness and caution when in their habitats. Her recovery continues, and she remains committed to educating the public about snake behavior and safety.
