Red-bellied black snake spotted at Rouse Hill shopping centre

A red-bellied black snake has been spotted making a surprise appearance at a shopping centre in Sydney's North West.

Shoppers found the snake at Rouse Hill Shopping centre, including 2GB newsreader Amie Meehan.

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She reports NSW police are on scene to ensure the snake is undisturbed while a snake catcher was called.

Red-bellied black snakes are common to the east coast of Australia and can be found in both urban forest environments and bushlands.

The snakes are generally not aggressive and will withdraw when approached.

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Between 2005 and 2015 red-bellied black snakes accounted for 16 per cent of identifiable snake bite victims, and none of whom were killed.

Symptoms of a red-bellied black snake bite include vomiting, headache, diarrhoea and excessive sweating.