Rattlesnakes Active in Claremont's Parks

Claremont is warning hikers that they share the wild life park is with all sorts of creatures, including snakes.

The city has received reports of rattlesnake sightings in the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park and Sycamore Canyon Park. Snakes become particularly active during warm weather, city officials said.

“As we approach the spring and summer months, please use caution when entering wilderness areas,” officials said.

Gopher snakes, King snakes, Western rattlesnakes make their home in the park and are generally not aggressive, officials said. But rattlesnakes strike when threatened or deliberately provoked. Given room they will typically retreat, officials said.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife provide the following tips for on how to avoid becoming a snake bite victim.

• Wear hiking boots and loose-fitting long pants. Never walk through wild areas barefoot or in sandals.
• Stick to well-used trails. Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide.
• Do not step or put hands where you cannot see.
• Never hike alone.
• Teach children to respect snakes and leave them alone

For more information on rattlesnakes, please visit the Department of Fish and Wildlife website.