Increased CA Rattlesnake Sightings Prompt Safety Advisory

ACROSS CALIFORNIA — Sightings of snakes — most notably rattlesnakes — have been reported recently along some East Bay regional park trails that make up their natural habitat, confirming the arrival of snake season not only in the Bay Area but across California.

"Rattlesnakes may be found in diverse habitats, from coastal to desert, and are widespread in California," according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. "They can be attracted to areas around homes with heavy brush or vegetation, under woodpiles where rodents may hide, as well as well-manicured landscapes to bask in the sun."

Among the seven species of rattlesnakes in California, the Western rattlesnake is the most widespread, according to state wildlife officials. It is found statewide from sea level up to 7,000 feet. There are three subspecies, the Northern Pacific rattlesnake found throughout Central and coastal Northern California, the Southern Pacific rattlesnake found in coastal Southern California, and the Great Basin rattlesnake found in the northern Sierra Nevada.

"Snakes emerge in warm spring weather to explore their environment, which can lead to more encounters with humans and dogs," said Jennifer Vanya, spokesperson for the East Bay Regional Park District.

With the re-emergence of snakes, park officials shared the following snake safety precautions.

What to Do If You See a Rattlesnake

If you see a snake on a trail, do not approach it. Wait for it to cross the trail, then move carefully and slowly away. Leave it alone — do not try to capture or harm it. All park wildlife is protected by law.

Gopher Snakes And Rattlesnakes: How To Tell The Difference

Gopher snakes and rattlesnakes both live in area parks and have similar markings but there are ways to tell them apart.

• Rattlesnakes have a dull coat, gopher snakes are shiny
• A rattlesnake's head is larger than its neck; a gopher snake's head is the same size as its neck
• A rattlesnake has a rattle on its tail; a gopher snake has a pointy tail with no rattle

VIDEO: Gopher Snake Or Rattlesnake?

What To Do If Bitten By A Snake

1. If bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm and send someone to call 911. Remain calm by lying down with the affected limb lower than the heart. Getting medical attention quickly is critical - do not spend time on tourniquets, “sucking,” or snake bite kits. If you are by yourself, walk calmly to the nearest source of help to dial 911. Do not run.
2. If bitten by any other kind of snake, wash the wound with soap and water or an antiseptic and seek medical attention.
3. If you are not sure what kind of snake bit you, check the bite for two puncture marks (in rare cases one puncture mark) associated with intense, burning pain. This is typical of a rattlesnake bite. Other snakebites may leave multiple teeth marks without associated burning pain.

Trail Safety Tips

1. Avoid hiking alone so you have help in case of an emergency.
2. Scan the ground ahead of you as you walk, jog, or ride. Stay on trails and avoid walking in tall grass.
3. Look carefully around and under logs and rocks before sitting down.
4. Avoid placing your hands or feet where you cannot see clearly.
5. Keep dogs on designated trails and away from snakes if they see one.

Park officials noted that snakes are an important resource in the natural environment.

"They are prime controlling agents of rodents, insects, and other reptile populations," Vanya said. "Enjoy them from afar and leave them where they are found."