Warning: Bay Area Rattlesnakes Awaken From Winter Hibernation

EAST BAY, CA — The East Bay Regional Park District reminded visitors to keep precautions about snakes in mind when visiting local parks throughout the spring, summer and fall seasons.

Rattlesnakes, particularly, are native to California and become more active in early spring when they emerge from winter hibernation. Rattlesnakes are found not only in wildland habitats but in rural and urban areas and since they are more active in warm weather, it can lead to encounters with humans and dogs.

Still, rattlesnakes are important resources in the natural environment, Acting East Bay Park Spokesperson Flora Csontos said.

"They are prime controlling agents of rodents and other reptile populations," Csontos said. "Enjoy them from afar and leave them where they are found. Collecting, killing, or removing any plants or animals from the Park District is illegal. Please help protect all wildlife and their environment."

Rattlesnake Safety Tips From The Park District

1. Avoid hiking alone so you have help in case of emergency.
2. Scan the ground ahead of you as you walk, jog, or ride.
3. Stay on trails and avoid walking in tall grass.
4. Look carefully around and under logs and rocks before sitting down.
5. Listen for the buzz of a rattlesnake’s rattle warning you it is there.
6. Avoid placing your hands or feet where you cannot see clearly.
7. For maximum safety, consider keeping your dog on a leash.

What to Do If You See a Rattlesnake

Leave it alone. Do not try to capture or harm it. All native wildlife is protected by law, and it is safest to leave it alone. If you see a snake, do not approach. Move carefully and slowly away or around it while giving it plenty of space.

What to Do If Bitten by a Snake

1. If bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm and have someone call 911. Remain calm by lying down with the affected limb lower than the heart. Getting medical attention quickly is critical - do not use tourniquets, “sucking,” or snake bite kits. If you are by yourself, walk calmly to the nearest source of help to dial 911. Do not run.
2. If bitten by any other type of snake, wash the wound with soap and water or an antiseptic and seek medical attention.
3. If you are unsure what kind of snake bit you, check the bite for two puncture marks (in rare cases one puncture mark) associated with intense, burning pain. This is typical of a rattlesnake bite. Other snakebites may leave multiple teeth marks without associated burning pain.
4. You do not need to identify the specific type of rattlesnake to receive the correct antivenom. The Northern Pacific rattlesnake is the species found in East Bay Regional Parks.

View the Park District's Common Snakes brochure below and download a copy for your phone.

Visit ebparks.org/safety/wildlife-encounters for more on staying safe around snakes and other local wildlife.