It might sound cliche – but this photo is why I tell every single Aussie to check their shoes before they put them on: ‘Terrifying’

A snake catcher has issued a stark warning to Australians after a routine call-out to a home revealed a surprising danger.

A potentially deadly reptile had slipped into one of the most unsuspecting places – a pair of running shoes.

Snake Catcher Bronte, who is based in Newcastle, NSW, with a team of experienced zookeepers specialising in reptile relocation, was recently called to a local property after a homeowner made a chilling discovery.

The resident had been about to head out for a run when they noticed something unusual inside their sneaker – a red-bellied black snake curled up inside.

In a video shared to Instagram, Bronte can be seen carefully coaxing the snake out of the shoe, revealing just how snugly the reptile had tucked itself inside.

‘This is why you should check your shoes before putting them on!’ Bronte told Daily Mail.

‘It was a cosy place for this little red-bellied black snake to hide.’

The footage has since sparked alarm online, with many Australians admitting the clip confirmed their worst fears about leaving shoes outside.

New South Wales snake catcher has issued a stark warning to Australians after a routine call-out revealed a surprising danger after a potentially deadly reptile had slipped into a running shoe

‘Let me guess, Australia?’ one person commented.

‘This is why I never leave my shoes on the front porch no matter how wet or muddy they get,’ another wrote.

‘Omg I wish I never saw this,’ a third added.

Others shared their own close calls, with one revealing: ‘They fit in such small spaces…wow. I just had a green tree snake in my kitchen for a few days until it found its way out.’

While the discovery may seem extreme, experts say it’s far from uncommon, particularly in warmer months when snakes seek out cool, dark and enclosed spaces.

Shoes left outside, in garages or near entryways can become ideal hiding spots, especially for smaller species that can easily go unnoticed.

Australia is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world, many of which are relatively small and capable of squeezing into tight spaces.

Juvenile snakes are also more likely to end up in places like shoes, bags and outdoor equipment.

Snake Catcher Bronte (pictured), who works with a team of experienced zookeepers specialising in reptile relocation, was recently called to a local property after a homeowner discovered of a red-bellied black snake 

The footage has since sparked alarm online, with many Australians admitting the clip confirmed their worst fears about leaving shoes outside

 The red-bellied black snake, while venomous, is generally considered less dangerous than species like the eastern brown snake.

However, bites can still cause significant pain, swelling and medical complications, requiring urgent attention.

According to national data, there are typically around 2,000 to 3,000 snake bites reported in Australia each year.

Of these, an average of one to two prove fatal, which is a figure that has remained low thanks to widespread access to antivenom and fast medical response.

Bronte’s video serves as a timely reminder that in Australia, it pays to stay vigilant – even during the most ordinary parts of your daily routine. ‘If you find a snake in your shoe, give it space and call a licensed snake catcher for advice and/or relocation,’ Bronte added.

Health authorities stress that while deaths are rare, every snake bite should be treated as a medical emergency.

Simple precautions, like shaking out shoes, checking inside before wearing them and avoiding leaving footwear outdoors overnight, can significantly reduce the risk.

Bronte’s video serves as a timely reminder that in Australia, it pays to stay vigilant – even during the most ordinary parts of your daily routine.

‘If you find a snake in your shoe, give it space and call a licensed snake catcher for advice and/or relocation,’ Bronte added.

‘With patience, the snake will likely move on by itself.

‘However, if you’re tapping out your boots for spiders, and a small snake falls out, treat it the same way – give it space.

‘It only wanted somewhere warm and safe to sleep, not to be stepped on.’