Rattlesnake Season Is Here: What Californians Should Know
Rattlesnake Season Is Here: What Californians Should Know
“Snake rattle and roll”: Warm and dry weather usually draws CA’s rattlesnakes out in the open this time of year. Here are some safety tips.
CALIFORNIA — It’s that time of year again when warm and dry weather draws the Golden State’s rattlesnakes out from the shadows, increasing the likelihood of Californians encountering the venomous creatures.
Most of California’s native snakes are completely harmless and the chances of getting bitten by a rattlesnake are rare, but residents, especially hikers and nature enthusiasts should be aware of them, officials from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said.
Rattlesnakes can be found all over California, from the coast to the desert. Typically, they are attracted to areas around homes with heavy brush, underneath woodpiles where rodents also hide, wildlife officials said. On hot days, these snakes can also be found on well-manicured lawns or anywhere they can bask in the sun.
The increased presence of rattlesnakes; however, should not deter Californians from venturing outside.
“Snakes are often misunderstood. They provide significant ecosystem benefits, such as rodent control, and are an important part of California’s unique biodiversity,” Vicky Monroe, CDFW’s Conflict Programs Coordinator, said in a statement. “Snakes prefer to avoid people or pets and are not naturally aggressive.”
Despite popular opinion, rattlesnakes actually aren’t aggressive by nature unless they’re provoked or feel threatened. Most of the time, if given space while encountering humans, they will retreat on their own, officials said.
“We encourage people to be rattlesnake safe, take time to learn about their local wildlife and take appropriate safety precautions when enjoying the outdoors,” Monroe said.
Most bites typically occur between April and October and only when a rattlesnake is handled or accidentally brushed against by someone walking or climbing. These bites on occasion have caused severe injury and can result in death, officials warn.
Here’s how to reduce the likelihood of an encounter with a rattlesnake in California, according to CDFW:
- Be alert: Rattlesnakes are sensitive to temperature and will move around accordingly. After a cool night, they will attempt to raise their body temperature by basking in the sun midmorning. To prevent overheating during hot days of spring and summer, they will become more mobile at dawn, dusk or the evening.
- Wear sturdy boots and loose-fitting long pants: Wildlife officials warned Californias to never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through brushy, wild areas. Surprised rattlesnakes may not sound their rattle before striking defensively, officials said..
- When hiking, stick to populated and used trails: Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy vegetation where snakes could remain hidden during the day, officials said.
- Do not step or put your hands where you can’t see: Step on logs and rocks, never over them, and be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood. Check out stumps or logs before sitting down, and always shake out sleeping bags before use, officials said.
- Never grab sticks or branches while swimming in lakes and rivers: As terrifying as it sounds, rattlesnakes can swim.
- Be careful when stepping over doorsteps: Snakes like to crawl along the edge of buildings where they are protected on one side, wildlife officials warn.
- Don’t hike alone: Always have someone with you who can help you in an emergency.
- Do not handle a freshly killed snake: It can still inject venom.
What to do if you’ve been bitten, according to CDFW:
- Stay calm but act quickly.
- Remove watches, rings, etc., which could constrict swelling.
- Transport yourself or the victim to the nearest medical facility.
- For more first aid information, please call the California Poison Control System at (800) 222-1222.
- Call 911.
What not to do after being bitten:
- Don’t apply a tourniquet.
- Don’t pack the bite area in ice.
- Don’t cut the wound with a knife or razor.
- Don’t use your mouth to suck out the venom.
- Don’t drink alcohol.
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