LA Times: It’s not your imagination. This is a weird rattlesnake season. Here’s what’s happening

"...Taylor said she’d already had about 10 to 20 times the number of calls she usually receives from those in her community.

Why? Simply put: The snakes have been more active — and so have people.

Unseasonably warm weather patterns, including the unprecedented heatwave in March, have driven rattlesnakes out of their winter retreats in search of food and mates a month ahead of the typical start of rattlesnake season, Taylor said. Similarly, the warmer temperatures have compelled outdoor enthusiasts to hit the trails, increasing the odds of a run-in with the serpents. ..."

(paywall)
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-04-01/its-not-your-imagination-this-is-weird-rattlesnake-season-heres-whats-happening

#rattlesnakes #hiking #biking #SoCal