Snakes! Why Oh Why Utah Does It Have To Be Snakes!
As temperatures rise across Utah, residents venturing outdoors this spring and summer may encounter an often-misunderstood local: the rattlesnake. It's Indiana Jones' worst nightmare.
While their sudden appearance on trails or in backyards can be startling, understanding these reptiles and how to coexist safely with them is key to avoiding conflict.
Utah is home to five rattlesnake species, the most common being the Great Basin rattlesnake. These snakes are an essential part of the ecosystem, helping control rodent populations and reducing the spread of rodent-borne diseases. Rattlesnakes are most active in late spring and early summer, especially around dawn and dusk, though they can be encountered at any time of day. Typical habitats include rocky benches, dry canyons, and high-elevation slopes, but they may also be spotted in open areas or even backyards.
Thanks for making sure I'll never go outside again.
What You Should Know About Rattlesnakes
“It is important to become more knowledgeable about the rattlesnakes that you may encounter around your residence or during outdoor recreational activities,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Native Herpetology Coordinator Alyssa Hoekstra said in a press release. “Being aware of species you may encounter is a great way to be proactive in avoiding any unwanted interactions with rattlesnakes and prepares you to respond in a safe manner.”
If you encounter a rattlesnake, stay calm and back away slowly. Do not attempt to kill or harass the snake—it is illegal and greatly increases the risk of being bitten. Rattlesnakes typically only strike in self-defense and will not chase people. Keeping pets on a leash and children nearby reduces the likelihood of surprise encounters.
Rattlesnake bites are rare but serious. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Do not use tourniquets, apply ice or heat, or - even though you've seen it in old western movies - attempt to suck out the venom. If you frequently hike in remote areas, carrying a satellite phone is a good precaution.
To reduce the chance of attracting rattlesnakes to your yard, eliminate brush piles, block off crawl spaces, and avoid leaving out water or bird seed that might attract rodents. Gopher snakes, which are harmless, are often mistaken for rattlesnakes. When in doubt, treat any unidentified snake as venomous and keep your distance. That's my personal mode of operation.
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For more safety information, visit the Wild Aware Utah website or listen to the DWR Wild podcast.
And in case you are wondering, I won't be attending the event below.....ever!
LOOK: This Is What You'll See At The World's Largest Rattlesnake Round-Up
Gallery Credit: Rudy Fernandez