As you can see I took the photo from a distance not really close enough to tell if it was a rattlesnake or not.
Nonetheless, as more people are out enjoying the warmer weather, more snakes are out, too.
It’s Robb Cramer's job to make sure you know you don't have to go to
"We do have rattlesnakes all over our hills. The northern pacific rattlesnake, which is a snake we have on exhibit is found in
The warmer weather means more people and snakes will be found on hiking trails, campgrounds, maybe even your backyard.
Pay attention, because they can be hard to see.
“They're green like grass,” said Jade.
In the case of rattlesnakes, you may hear one before you see it.
“You just want to keep your distance. Recognize that as a warning to step away,” said Steve Barber.
If you spot one while on a hike, tell a ranger like Steve Barber.
“We'll go out identify the snake and then catch it and relocate it,” said Barber.
Cramer says, "If you don't know what it is, don't pick it up."
A lesson easy to learn when paired with visuals like these.
Ella says, "I would never touch that!"
"You don't want to reach your hand where you can't see it,” says Barber.
Robb Crammer says, “You definitely don't want to go walking somewhere where you can't see your feet. Most people get bit by being surprised. The snake didn't hear them coming while they were out basking or sleeping.”
Barber says, “There's definitely quite a few old wives' tales out there. Tying off, cutting the wound open and sucking out the venom is not a good idea. Just stay calm, focus on your breathing and realize it's not an immediate reaction when it comes to something fatal and if you get to a local hospital fast enough you'll be fine.”
Though they're the last animal you might call friendly.
Justin asked, “Do you want to get close to a snake?”
Jade said, “No!”
At a safe distance, snakes are our Friends.
Barber says, “They are part of the natural environment and helps us keep a handle on rodents and farmers and ranchers rely on them to keep pest problems at bay.”
You want to keep your eyes peeled while you swim too, because rattlesnakes have been known to swim as well.