Snakes on the move as weather warms up

Spring has almost sprung and authorities are warning snakes are on the move.

Warmer weather means snakes will become more active, and authorities say some simple precautions can reduce the chance of an encounter.

"The important thing to remember if you see a snake is to give it a wide berth and not threaten or provoke it," Queensland Climate Change and Sustainability Minister Kate Jones said.

She said most people who have been bitten have threatened the snake by interfering with it or trying to kill it.

"Residents who encounter a snake indoors should open external doors and windows, close internal doors to the area the snake is in, and place door snakes or rolled towels against the bottom of those doors," she said.

If the reptile was reluctant to move on, people could call the Department of Environment and Resource Management on 1300 130 372 for advice and the details of contractors who remove snakes.

People have also been advised to clear their yards of items, such as sheets of tin, where snakes like to shelter.

Grass should be kept short, gardeners should wear gloves and protective footwear, and hikers should walk with others and stay on defined paths or tracks.

People have also been reminded that it's an offence to kill snakes, which are protected under the Nature Conservation Act.