Rattlesnakes in California from a professional snake wrangler perspective.

Rattlesnake Activity Alert: Bay Area Expert Warns Residents as Snake Encounters and Bites Increase Across California

Ongoing Summer 2026 Public Safety Alert
Northern California & San Francisco Bay Area
GOT SNAKES? Bay Area Snake Removal

As warm weather continues across California, wildlife experts are reporting a significant increase in rattlesnake activity throughout both Northern and Southern California. Recent rattlesnake bite incidents, including several severe cases and fatalities reported elsewhere in the state, serve as an important reminder that rattlesnakes are now active and can frequently be found in residential neighborhoods, parks, open spaces, and backyard landscapes.

Local snake removal expert David Allen, owner of GOT SNAKES? Bay Area Snake Removal, says his company has already seen a substantial increase in rattlesnake-related calls throughout the Bay Area this season.

“Many people are surprised to learn that rattlesnakes don’t just live in remote wilderness areas,” Allen said. “We routinely find rattlesnakes in residential yards, around patios, near garages, beneath decks, and in landscaping. As temperatures rise, homeowners should be especially vigilant.”

Why Are Rattlesnakes Appearing in Neighborhoods?

Rattlesnakes are often attracted to properties that provide shelter, water, and food sources. Common rattlesnake hiding places include:

• Rock walls and retaining walls
• Wood piles and debris piles
• Overgrown vegetation
• Dense ground cover
• Irrigation systems and water features
• Rodent-infested areas
• Under sheds, decks, hot tubs, and patios

Homes located near hillsides, creeks, open space preserves, golf courses, and undeveloped land may experience increased rattlesnake activity during spring and summer.

Rattlesnake Safety Tips

Residents are encouraged to follow these safety recommendations:

• Keep grass and weeds trimmed.
• Remove rodent attractants around the property.
• Watch where you place your hands and feet when gardening.
• Keep pets on leash near natural areas.
• Teach children to observe wildlife from a safe distance.
• Never attempt to capture, kill, or handle a rattlesnake.
• Contact a qualified professional if a snake is found on your property.

What To Do If Bitten

If a rattlesnake bite occurs:

• Call 911 immediately.
• Remain as calm as possible.
• Remove jewelry or restrictive clothing near the bite area.
• Seek emergency medical care without delay.
• Do not apply a tourniquet.
• Do not cut the wound.
• Do not attempt to suck out venom.

About GOT SNAKES? Bay Area Snake Removal

For more than 25 years, David Allen has specialized in professional snake capture, removal, and rattlesnake safety throughout Northern California.

GOT SNAKES? provides:

✓ 24-hour emergency rattlesnake removal
✓ Non-venomous snake removal
✓ Residential rattlesnake inspections
✓ Commercial property inspections
✓ HOA and community inspections
✓ Snake habitat assessments
✓ Snake exclusion recommendations
✓ Wildlife identification services
✓ Public education and safety presentations
✓ Property risk reduction consultations

The company serves homeowners, businesses, schools, parks, municipalities, and community associations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California.

Contact Information

GOT SNAKES? Bay Area Snake Removal
David Allen, Owner & Wildlife Specialist
📞 (925) 997-3730
🌐 www.GotSnakes.org
⏰ 24-Hour Emergency Snake Removal Service

As California enters the peak of rattlesnake season, experts encourage residents to stay alert, keep properties maintained, and seek professional assistance when necessary. Awareness and preparation remain the best tools for preventing dangerous encounters and keeping families and pets safe.

This community safety alert is intended to promote rattlesnake awareness and public safety throughout Northern California and the Bay Area during the 2026 rattlesnake season.