A wildlife conservationist and veterinarian, Dr Mark Ofua, has warned that it is possible for people to live with a snake in their home for years without ever realising it.
Dr Ofua, the founder of Saint Mark’s Animal Hospital in Lagos, made the revelation in an exclusive interview with Legit.ng, where he explained that snakes are silent, primal creatures that carefully study human movement and routines.
According to the veterinarian, who has been practising since 2014, one of the earliest signs that a snake may be present in a house is the discovery of strange droppings that do not resemble those of common household pests.
“So, you could live with a snake for years and not know,” he said. “One of the ways you might find out is when you see unusual poop that looks like snake droppings.”
He added that unusual rustling sounds from cupboards, storerooms or areas where utensils and items are kept could also signal the presence of a snake, especially if the animal is moving through stored objects.
Another sign, he explained, is hearing distress sounds from animals such as rats or frogs. According to him, when a snake captures prey, the animal often makes a distinct squealing sound while struggling to escape.
Dr Ofua further noted that noises from ceilings could also indicate that a snake is present, particularly when it is hunting rodents overhead.
“These animals are silent. They time your movements. They know when you are out of the house and when you are around,” he said. “They can live with you for years and you won’t know, unless you pay attention to these signs.”
He cautioned Nigerians to take unusual sounds and signs seriously, stressing that ignoring them could allow a snake to remain undetected for a long time.
(Legit.ng)
