Residents have been warned about the rise in snake sightings across the North West.

The DSE says abundant food sources in the form of mice and an increase in the frog population after major floods is believed to be the reason for the rise.

Biodiversity Officer Glenn Smith said people are finding snakes in unusual places as they go in search of food.

"We’ve heard that many farmers are finding snakes in their tractors and combines, for example, as the snakes are on the hunt for mice,” Mr Smith said.

"Another reason for more sightings this year may be because snakes were redistributed with flood waters earlier in the year and are now being found in areas where people aren’t used to seeing them."

Common snakes found in the North West include Eastern Brown snakes, Tiger snakes, Red-Bellied Black snakes, all of which are all venomous.

Mr Smith said snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and are part of the natural environment.

“Snakes bite to protect themselves from what they see as danger,” Mr Smith said.

“Many snake bites occur when people try to catch or kill snakes, and these bites are entirely avoidable.

Mr Smith said warm, active snakes generally tend to avoid people and will generally slither away well before they're approached too closely.

He said people should be on the lookout for snakes around creeks, watercourses and other areas with long grass or habitat for potential prey such as mice, frogs and lizards.

“If people follow some basic steps they can reduce the risk of a snake in their garden. Often snakes are found in backyards because they are passing through on their way to other habitat,” he said.

“Cleaning up around the house and cutting lawns regularly can help to deter snakes. They are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, sheets of metal or building materials.

“Never attempt to touch a snake. If you see a snake, keep calm and try to move yourself, pets and children away from the snake."

Anyone bitten by a snake should stay calm, and as still as possible.

A pressure bandage or clothing or towels torn into strips should be immediately applied to the bite area.

The injured person should then be taken straight to a hospital emergency department for treatment.

Advice on snakebite is available from the Poisons Information Centre 24 hours a day on 13 11 26.

It is illegal to kill a snake, however residents can arrange for a licensed commercial snake catcher to remove them.