Our team's Nature Diaries - January 2025

Red-bellied black snake - spotted along the Whitfield-Wangaratta Rd

January 2025

Whilst out and about in our beautiful region lately, I have noticed two common themes that have been a standout for me over these warmer months. One of these goes mostly unnoticed by many, whilst the other generally gets a bad wrap! - native grasses and snakes.  

I’ll admit for years, native grasses were not on my radar either, however once you start paying attention to these unassuming little beauties, you truly realise the stunning variability that they hold and just how many species we have locally! Recently, I spotted a whole roadside, with barely a weed in sight and a plethora of native grasses. With the morning sun coming over the hill and lighting up the seed heads in a golden hue, it was simply breathtaking.  

Whereas my other shy little friends have also been soaking up the morning sun in many of our reserves lately. Thanks to the past few years of decent summer rain, the frog population has exploded which has made for some very happy, fat and healthy joe blakes. I personally adore snakes, and think they are one of the most beautiful creatures, the colours of their scales against the pale rocks or earthy soil tones I’ve been spotting them on, I can't help but admire them! It’s not only their beauty that I love, but the important role they hold within our ecosystem. So next time you’re out and about like me, have a look around and see if you can spot some lovely native grasses, and if you’re lucky enough to see a snake, just give them a wide birth and continue on your path. Happy exploring! 

-Council’s Enviro & Horticulture Officer

Austrostipa densiflora - Native grass - spotted at Salisbury Falls Warby Ovens National Park