Residents of Jinxiu Xincheng, a residential complex in Nansha District's Dongchong Town, Guangzhou, have reported a sharp increase in snake sightings over the past two years, with more than 60 snakes captured since last year alone. The situation has left many anxious, particularly as snakes have been found inside low-rise homes—one even slithered into a shoe.
The property management has responded with a dedicated snake-control effort, including 24-hour emergency channels promising a 15-minute response time. Measures such as placing snake nets, setting traps baited with toads, and filling ground holes with cement have been implemented to reduce habitats.
Authorities attribute the rise in snake activity to the area's ecological conditions. Nansha's extensive water networks, high green coverage, and overgrown grasses provide an ideal habitat for snakes. Property managers suspect a snake nest may be hidden underground, though professional inspections have yet to locate it.
Some residents link the increase to nearby construction. "There used to be vegetable fields next to us, but after they were developed into buildings, snakes may have migrated here," one homeowner suggested. Seasonal patterns also play a role: sightings peak in September, and dogs' barks often signal snake presence.
The local government has stepped in to support control efforts. Dongchong Community noted that around 20 snakes have been caught this year and pledged to guide the property management on scientific prevention strategies. Clean-ups, repellents, and public awareness campaigns are now underway.
Author | Feng Huiting
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James Campion, Shen He
