rattlesnake safety

California is home to several species of rattlesnakes, all of which are venomous. These snakes are California's only native venomous snakes. There are generally eight species or subspecies recognized, including the Southern Pacific, Northern Pacific, and Great Basin rattlesnakes, as well as the Western diamondback, red diamondback, sidewinder, speckled rattlesnake, and the Mojave green rattlesnake. 

Here's a more detailed look at some of the key rattlesnake species in California:

• Northern Pacific Rattlesnake: Found in Central and coastal Northern California. 

• Southern Pacific Rattlesnake: Found in coastal Southern California. 

• Great Basin Rattlesnake: Found in the northern Sierra Nevada. 

• Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake: A large rattlesnake found in the southern deserts of the southeast corner of the state. 

• Red Diamond Rattlesnake: Found in Baja California and southwestern California south of Los Angeles. 

• Sidewinder: Several subspecies, including the Mohave and Colorado Desert sidewinders. 

• Speckled Rattlesnake: Found in the southwestern part of the state. 

• Mojave Green Rattlesnake: Found in the Mojave Desert region. 

These snakes are active from spring through fall and can be found in various habitats, including rural and urban areas, riverbanks, parks, and golf courses.  They often prefer rocky, open areas for basking and hiding, as well as proximity to water sources.

Important Considerations:

• Rattlesnakes can be dangerous, and their venom is toxic to humans. 

• They typically only strike if they feel threatened or cornered. 

• If you encounter a rattlesnake, it's best to give it space and allow it to leave the area. 

If a rattlesnake does inject venom into a victim, a variety of symptoms develop. Most bite victims experience some or many of the following:

• Swelling, 

• pain and bleeding at the site of the bite, 

• sweating, chills, 

• dizziness, 

• weakness, 

• numbness or tingling of the mouth or tongue, 

• changes in the heart rate and blood pressure, 

• salivation, thirst, 

• swollen eyelids, blurred vision, 

• muscle spasms, 

• unconsciousness, 

• improper blood clotting ability

All rattlesnake bites need treatment. Serious bites are life threatening.

INITIAL FIRST AID: Because most Californians live in rattlesnake country, every family member should be made aware of the following snakebite emergency plan of action. 

1. DO Activate 911 

2. DO Activate as earlly as possible.  If you are not in an area where an emergency responder can reach you, then you may have to transport the victim.  Always remember to move the transportation to the victim and NOT move the victim to the transportation.

3. DO try to calm the victim

4. DO gently wash the bite area with soap and water

5. DO remove any watches, rings, etc. which may constrict swelling

6. DO apply a cold, wet cloth over the bite if possible

7. DO keep the victim in a cool area

8. DO try to remember what the snake looked like and describe this to your first responders or hospital staff.

There are also several "DO NOTs" to remember:

1. DO NOT apply a tourniquet

2. DO NOT pack the bite area in ice or ice water

3. DO NOT cut the wound with a knife or razor

4. DO NOT suck out the venom by mouth

5. DO NOT let the victim drink alcohol

Rattlesnakes and Pets

Your dog or cat if bitten will suffer many of the same symptoms as people and treatment is considered to be an emergency. The same do and don't list applies to dogs and cats. Vaccination treatment is available for dogs. Dr. Greg Anderson at Calaveras Veterinary Clinic in Milpitas (408 262 7200) reports the vaccine will lessen the severity of the bite but it still requires prompt emergency treatment.