Mastodawn

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

It's not your imagination. This is a weird rattlesnake season. Here's what's happening

Unseasonably warm weather patterns have accelerated rattlesnake activity and the chances of run-ins with humans, experts say.

Los Angeles Times

Show thread

AI6YR Ben 2d ago

"...“Give rattlesnakes at least three to four feet of space, and more for larger individuals,” he said. “Keep your distance, take a few photos to add to a community science platform like iNaturalist, and then allow yourself and the snake to continue on in your journey.”

When you’re enjoying a trail, stick to the designated path and avoid walking in tall grass or areas where you cannot see the ground.

During a hike, if you need to take a break on a log or a rock, make sure to inspect it before taking a seat. ..."

#rattlesnakes #hiking #safety

Show thread

mark

@ai6yr those things can strike at an absurd percentage of their length. Being 3 feet away from a 4 foot snake is not safe