SILVER FOX DIES

Legendary Worcester snake catcher Andre du Preez passes away after complications following a spider bite

- BY MARSHA DEAN

TRIBUTES are pouring in for Worcester snake catcher Andre du Preez, who tragically died after going to hospital with a spider bite on his ear.

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

On 9 February 2026, Du Preez took to his Facebook with a picture of himself in hospital, saying that at the time he had been admitted 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 hok looking for a cobra (sic).

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