Rattlesnakes abound in the Anza Valley

Rattlesnake sightings and interactions have been on the increase since warm weather has returned to the Anza Valley. As temperatures increase, so do the reptiles' activity levels.

So far this season, there have been dozens of reported rattler sightings. The animals are becoming more mobile as the weather warms up and residents should be alert for unintended contact.

The winter rains have resulted in a population explosion of the snakes' preferred prey – small rodents like mice, rats and ground squirrels. The increase in prey in turn encourages movement of the serpents as they search for food.

To hunt, a rattlesnake utilizes heat-sensing organs on each side of its face, called loreal pits, that help them locate prey. Snake species that have these organs are called pit vipers, a group that includes rattlesnakes, water moccasins and copperheads.

Rattlers have dead skin "buttons" on the end of their tails that form a rattle that makes a hissing noise when the snake vibrates it in fear or anger. They can warn against contact – or not. Sometimes a rattler does not rattle at all and may strike nonetheless.

Rattlesnakes are also potently venomous; however, bites to humans are not all that common. But when a bite occurs, the results can be devastating.

The venom damages tissue and affects the circulatory system by destroying skin tissues and blood cells and by causing internal hemorrhaging.

Scarring, bruising, localized pain, massive swelling, discoloration and blood degeneration as well as nausea and vomiting can occur. Without prompt treatment, or if someone has a major allergic reaction to the venom, a rattlesnake bite can be fatal.

The California Poison Control Center records about 800 bites each year statewide, with one to two deaths, according to the state Department of Fish and Game.

Rattlesnakes give birth to live young and are therefore considered ovoviviparous. The females produce eggs and retain them inside their body until the eggs hatch, at which time she will give birth to fully developed baby snakes.

This form of reproduction leads to a higher survival rate for the offspring, as the creatures' eggs are not eaten by predators.

There are several species of rattlesnakes in Southern California, including the Speckled, Crotalus mitchellii, Red Diamond, Crotalus ruber and Southern Pacific, Crotalus oreganus helleri, rattlesnakes. All are venomous.

If you suddenly find yourself in the company of a rattlesnake, remain calm and think clearly. Slowly move away from the animal and keep your distance. The snake will not chase you; they want to be left alone.

Sometimes they give a warning to their location. When frightened, rattlesnakes rattle or buzz as a warning to not step on them and to stay away. If you hear one before you see it, stay still until you see the snake or know exactly where it is. Move slowly away from it.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife offered the following advice.

Be alert.

Like all reptiles, rattlesnakes are sensitive to the ambient temperature and will adjust their behavior accordingly. After a cold or cool night, they will attempt to raise their body temperature by basking in the sun midmorning. To prevent overheating during hot days of spring and summer, they will become more active at dawn, dusk or night.

Wear sturdy boots and loose-fitting long pants. Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through brushy, wild areas. Startled rattlesnakes may not rattle before striking defensively.

When hiking, stick to well-used trails.

Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day.

Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see. Step on logs and rocks, never over them and be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood. Check out stumps or logs before sitting down, and shake out sleeping bags before use.

Never grab sticks or branches while swimming in lakes and rivers. Rattlesnakes can swim.

Be careful when stepping over doorsteps as well. Snakes like to crawl along the edge of buildings where they are protected on one side.

Never hike alone. Always have someone with you who can assist in an emergency.

Do not handle a freshly killed snake, as it can still inject venom.

Teach children early to respect snakes and to leave them alone.

Leash your dog when hiking in snake country.

Dogs are at increased risk of being bitten due to holding their nose to the ground while investigating the outdoors. Speak to your veterinarian about canine rattlesnake vaccines and what to do if your pet is bitten. There are also rattlesnake aversion training courses for dogs.

To discourage rattlers from your property, eliminate their food source. Keep animal feed and trash contained to keep rodents away, and clear brush that may be used by small animals as shelter.

There are many myths involving these interesting snakes. It is not true that juveniles are more venomous than adults. There is no published data to suggest that baby rattlers inject more venom or that they lack control of how much venom they expend.

Gopher snakes have not crossbred with rattlesnakes, as some people claim. They are separate species and cannot interbreed.

Be snake smart, be snake informed and be snake safe this summer.

If you need a snake removed, call Riverside County Animal Services at 951-358-7387.

Diane Sieker can be reached by email at [email protected].

Keywords: Anza, Rattlesnakes, Rattlers, Snake