Copperhead road

The uninvited copper decided to call Yarra Glen Police station home.

By Derek Schlennstedt

A young copperhead snake decided to make its home at Yarra Glen Police Station on 17 January, much to the surprise of wary police officers.

The aptly named ‘Copperhead’ snake decided to cosy up in the stations garage, and Sergeant Richard Coulson had to call an off-duty police member who was also a snake handler to remove the snake.

Sgt Coulson said the 12-month-old snake was relocated from the garage, after it was exhibiting aggressive behaviour.

“We were able to get the service of an off duty police member who is a snake catcher and he caught and relocated the snake,” Sgt Coulson said. “We were worried about it getting up into the engine bay of the patrol vehicle.

“It was quite aggressive and turned and reared its head up towards me.

“We’re used to dealing with all sorts of hazards, but, dealing with a snake is a bit of a different one.”