Rattlesnakes

Just a heads up....we received an email from a resident who lives above La Canada Park (off Erbes north of Olsen) who said he had a baby rattlesnake on his patio last week. Looks like rattlesnake season is early this year.
The snakes you may encounter in Southern California are typically unaggressive and simply wish to be left alone. The most common dangerous snake in Southern California is the rattlesnake.

Rattlesnakes can be visually identified by their rattles and their triangular head.

Rattlesnakes can sometimes be identified by the rattling sound their tail makes; however, they do not always make noise. They rattle their tail when feeling threatened, but not when they are surprised or if their rattle is wet or if their rattle has been broken off. Your first warning may be a snake bite!

Rattlesnakes can strike faster than the human eye can perceive, at a distance two-thirds theirown length. Unlike other snakes, the rattlesnake can strike without pulling back, then lunging forward. Their "body language" will not tip you off that they are about to strike. So don't get close. Keep your distance. Often, I have encountered rattlers in the open where they are crossing a road, sense human presence, and freeze. If you think you see a "dead" rattlesnake on the road, keep your distance!

Baby rattlesnakes are not born with rattles, but they are born with fangs and a full supply of venom and are dangerous because they do not have control over the amount of venom they inject into a wound. An adult snake may not even inject venom into a wound when striking defensively. Don't play with them!

Animal Control number: For snakes, calls go to: (818) 991-0071.

So when you're looking at those bank -owned properties with overgrown yards, keep the kiddies close and stay on the paths!


Have a great day!