Cessnock District Rescue Squad has been responding to about four snake relocation calls per week on average, and spokesman James Harris expects that to pick up as it gets closer to summer.

He said snakes went into a "brumation" period over winter, rather than a full hibernation, where they rested and were not as active.

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But the reptiles are now coming into mating time and are more out and about, Mr Harris said.

Bill Lantry from Bill's Snake Relocate said in a Facebook post that this time of year can see male snakes move great distances in search of females.

"The drive to mate and following scent trails can make snakes quite oblivious to their surrounds and they can find themselves in areas or situations they would normally do their absolute best to avoid," the post said.

"It can be a very challenging time for them as they travel searching for a mate and cross paths with people, vehicles, pets etc.

"Please keep this in mind. Best thing to do is give them space and allow them to continue their search."

Mr Harris said the snakes most commonly relocated by the squad were the green tree, red-bellied black, yellow-faced whip and the eastern brown.

But no matter what species it is, Mr Harris said it was important not to approach or try to catch a snake.

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"Don't make any sudden moves and back away slowly," he said.

"If one is within striking distance, stand still.

"It's natural instinct to run away but we've had guys stand still and an eastern brown has crawled over their feet.

"They are generally pretty placid unless they feel threatened."

Mr Harris said it was also important to keep yards tidy in order to deter snakes from entering backyards.

"Keep your lawns mowed and tidy," he said. "They love piles of corrugated iron, woodpiles and bricks.

"We had a job a few weeks ago where someone had firewood delivered and as they pulled it off the truck a red-naped snake came out."