Worcester's Oom Slang: Legendary snake catcher Andre du Preez dies after spider bite

Tributes have poured in for Worcester snake catcher Andre du Preez, who tragically died after being bitten by a spider on his ear.

Affectionately known as Oom Slang, the spider bite agitated a virus, leading to complications that ultimately led to his death.

On February 9, 2026, Du Preez took to his Facebook with a picture of himself in hospital, saying that at the time he had been admitted to hospital for four days already.

The post read: “Hi everyone, why am I so quiet. I have been in the hospital for four days now. A spider bite x3 on my right ear. I think it happened when I searched a shed looking for a cobra. 

“It started almost like a water blister and later it shifted to the inside of my ear, almost like raw mince. My balance is still totally gef*k. So I will let you know when I am available again to catch snakes. For now, first get healthy. Be safe.”

On February 13, the family posted an update saying that their father had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) the day before, as he had been battling shingles after the spider bite, which caused complications, and was medically sedated to recover.

However, on Wednesday, the family posted that they are praying for a breakthrough and will be reading all the stories to him in hopes that he will hear.

Unfortunately, on Thursday, the family once again took to Facebook to post that Oom Slang had sadly passed away, surrounded by family and friends. 

They wrote: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, and husband. He was surrounded by his family and friends until the very end.”

Attempts to reach the family were unsuccessful.

Boland Snake Removals 24/7 and Pest Control extended their condolences saying: “We bid farewell to a legend of a snake catcher from Worcester Silverfox Snake Rescues, a hero to many, a dad to his children, a husband to his good wife, with many loved ones and followers. 

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