Rattlesnakes are most active during the warmer months, making April through October rattlesnake season. This is when you’re most likely to need a snake removal specialist. For the most part, rattlesnakes are docile and rarely bite, but you should stay away from them.
How to Handle a Rattlesnake Encounter
Despite their reputation, rattlers tend to avoid conflict. If you keep your distance, you should be fine. Be alert for potential snakes when on a trail. Rattlesnakes tend to blend in with their surroundings.
Try to pass a comfortable distance from the snake if you see one. If there isn’t enough room, turn around. Hikers should bring friends along, just in case, and wear long pants and boots. Call a snake trapping specialist if you spot one near your home.
Rattlesnake Safety Tips
To stay safe:
- Never walk barefoot or wear sandals on trails or in wild areas.
- Stay on well-used trails when hiking.
- Avoid tall grass, heavy underbrush, or other areas where snakes hide.
- Never step over rocks, in case a snake is hiding.
- Do not yell (snakes have poor hearing) or throw rocks at one.
What to Do if Bitten
Rattlesnake poison is extremely powerful. Call 911 immediately or get to an emergency room. Wash the affected area with soap and water and elevate a bitten arm or leg above the heart. At the hospital, medical personnel will determine whether to use antivenom.
How to Tell a Rattlesnake from a Non-Venomous Snake
Rattlesnakes have triangular heads and a diamond pattern of dots, plus a trademark stubby tail and hollow rattle. They may be gray to pale or dark brown. There’s no way to tell a snake is non-venomous by looking at it, but rattlesnakes have a classic look and sound. Rattling and hissing are their primary defenses.
Call LA Animal Control
Animal Capture Wildlife Control specializes in trapping and removing rattlesnakes from homes and other properties. We use safe, humane practices and can perform snake inspections to check for evidence of a snake living nearby. Call us at 310-551-0901 to request help.