The rattlesnake is California’s only native venomous snake. Nine species are found in various areas of the state from below sea level to about 11,000 feet. Their size may vary, and adults of some species may reach 6 feet in length. Rattlesnakes are an important part of the ecosystem, feeding on rodents, birds, and other small animals.
Identification and Biology
Rattlesnakes have a distinctive, triangular-shaped head, which can be helpful in their identification; and as their name implies, most have a rattle on the tail end. The harmless gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer) appears similar to rattlesnakes and can alter its posture to mimic the triangular head shape but will always lack a rattle. The rattle lies at the end of the tail and is composed of interlocking horny segments of shed skin. Young rattlesnakes are born with a small rattle or button. A new segment is formed each time the skin is shed, which may occur several times a year. The size of the rattle is only a rough indicator of age because the terminal segments often break off on older snakes. Because rattles can shorten or be broken off completely, the lack of a rattle does not mean the snake is not a rattlesnake.
The most widespread rattlesnake in California is the western rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus), found from the northern part of the state as far south as Santa Barbara County and from sea level to 7,000 feet. Two closely related species (C. helleri and C. lutosus) are found in coastal Southern California and in the northern Sierra Nevada, respectively. The sidewinder (C. cerastes) is the smallest rattlesnake and is so named because of its peculiar method of sideways locomotion. The sidewinder is sometimes called the horned rattler because of the hornlike scales above its eyes. It is most commonly found in sandy desert areas from below sea level to 6,000 feet. The Mohave rattlesnake (C. scutulatus) ranges across the desert and foothills of southeastern California from sea level to higher elevations. The southwestern speckled rattlesnake (C. mitchellii) ranges from Baja California northward across much of the Colorado, Mojave, and Sonoran Deserts, overlapping with the red diamond rattlesnake (C. ruber) in western parts of its range and the sidewinder farther east. The Panamint rattlesnake (C. stephensi) is closely related but has a more northerly distribution in the inland desert regions of Southern California. The red diamond rattlesnake is found in Baja California and in southwestern California south of Los Angeles. The western diamond-backed rattlesnake (C. atrox) is seldom seen in California but occurs in the extreme southeastern part of the state in desert regions.
Most rattlesnakes forage for prey in or near brushy or tall grass areas, rock outcrops, rodent burrows, around and under surface objects, and sometimes in the open. Adults eat live prey, primarily rodents; the young consume mostly lizards and young rodents. To catch their prey, rattlesnakes wait until a prey animal is nearby. The snake strikes with two large fangs that inject venom. This subdues and usually kills the prey, which is then swallowed whole. Rattlesnakes feed on carrion less frequently.
When inactive, most rattlesnakes seek cover in crevices of rocks, under surface objects, beneath dense vegetation, and in rodent burrows. In some areas, rattlesnakes hibernate for several months in the crevices of rock accumulations. Unlike many reptiles, rattlesnakes give birth to live young. Newborn snakes require protection for 1-2 weeks and are likely to be born in abandoned rodent burrows, rock crevices, or in other secluded places.
Rattlesnakes are among the group of snakes called pit vipers because of the small pits on each side of the head between the eye and nostril. These pits are temperature-sensitive structures that assist the snake in finding prey, even in complete darkness. The tongue is also used to detect the scent of prey. Rattlesnakes have a specialized venom delivery system. Venom is produced in glands behind the eyes and then flows through ducts to the hollow fangs. Normally the fangs fold back against the roof of the mouth and when a snake strikes, the fangs pivot forward to inject venom. Rattlesnakes may occasionally bite without injecting venom, often called a ‘dry’ bite. However, even after its death, a rattlesnake can still inject venom for an hour or more by reflex action. Caution, therefore, is advised when handling what appears to be a dead snake.
Snake Bites
In the United States, about 1,000 rattlesnake bites are reported annually, although typically fewer than 4 people die from these bites in a given year. Although seldom fatal, bites can be extremely painful and can lead to severe tissue loss and medical trauma. It is important to never handle rattlesnakes, not even dead ones.
Those who enjoy hiking should determine first whether rattlesnakes are found in that area and under what conditions they might be encountered; however, rattlesnakes may be very sparse or nonexistent across parts of their range. In addition, they can sometimes be transported into areas outside their normal range, either by humans or by natural mechanisms such as floods. If rattlesnakes are in the area, they will most likely be hidden in rock crevices, under logs, in heavy brush, or in other areas where they are protected, including tall grass; but they can also be found on roads, paths, and other areas where cover is limited. Be careful when moving brush, wood, logs, or other debris. In rattlesnake country, be alert when kneeling down to work in the garden and watch where you step. Since rattlesnakes are often well camouflaged and wait quietly for prey, they can be difficult to see. In the wild, rattlesnakes should be left alone as they present little potential hazard. In fact, more than half of venomous snakebites in the United States occur as a result of a person bothering, handling, or harassing a snake, and approximately half of snakebite patients report ingesting alcohol prior to being bitten. Thus, it would seem that one of the key ways to avoid being bitten is to avoid harassing venomous snakes, especially if you are under the influence of alcohol. However, rattlesnakes can still present some risk even if they are not being pestered. For many people, having them around the home or garden is not acceptable. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize potential hazards.
What Should I Do for Initial First Aid?
Because most Californians live in rattlesnake country, a snakebite emergency plan should be developed before it is needed. If you are less than one hour from the nearest emergency room, initial treatment is relatively simple:
- Try to calm the victim.
- Gently wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold, wet cloth over the bite.
- Transport victim to the nearest emergency facility for further treatment.
- Phone ahead to notify the emergency facility that a snakebite victim is being brought in.
- If safe to do so, have someone photograph the snake so that identification can be made to aid in treatment.
What should NOT be done after a rattlesnake bite?
Several DON’Ts are very important to remember:
- DON’T apply a tourniquet.
- DON’T pack the bite area in ice.
- DON’T cut the wound with a knife or razor.
- DON’T use your mouth to suck out the venom.
- DON’T let the victim drink alcohol.
- DON’T apply electric shock.
- DON’T use a snakebite kit as these do not work and can cause more damage.
Call: 1-800-222-1222
any time, any place in California
California Poison Control System
(http://www.calpoison.org/)
Legal Status
The nine species of rattlesnakes found in California are not considered endangered or threatened. California Department of Fish and Wildlife Code classifies rattlesnakes as native reptiles. California residents can take most rattlesnake species on private lands in any legal manner without a license or permit, although a bag limit of two still applies. Additionally, the red diamond rattlesnake (C. ruber) is prohibited from being taken or killed by state wildlife regulation.
Management
Rattlesnakes add to the diversity of our wildlife and are important members of our ecosystem. They can reduce the number of disease carrying rodents and other pest species. In general, they should be left alone, whenever possible, especially in wildland areas. Nonvenomous snakes should also be left alone wherever found.
Because of the danger rattlesnakes pose to people, pets, and domestic animals, it can be necessary to exclude or remove them from around homes and gardens.
Detection
It is difficult to detect rattlesnakes because they are not easy to see or to find in their hiding places. Be alert to the potential for their presence during the times of year when rattlesnakes are generally active in your region. If rattlesnakes become exceptionally numerous in an area, sightings by neighbors may alert you to expect a problem. Snake populations may fluctuate from year to year; this is thought to be related in part to the availability of prey. Some animals, such as peacocks, turkeys, and dogs, can be good sentinels for detecting rattlesnakes. If your dog behaves in an unusual manner, such as excessively barking or whining, it would be wise to investigate for the presence of a snake. A veterinarian should immediately attend to dogs or domestic animals bitten by a rattlesnake. If you have a snake-proof fence, be sure to check its integrity prior to the time when snakes become active in the late winter or early spring. Remember that keeping the rodent population in and around your yard under control is an excellent way to discourage snakes of all kinds.
Habitat Modification
One of the best ways to discourage rattlesnakes from inhabiting gardens and homes is to remove suitable hiding places. Heavy brush, tall grass, rocks, logs, rotten stumps, lumber piles, and other places of cover should be cleaned up. Keep weeds mowed close to the ground or remove them completely. Since snakes are often attracted to areas in search of prey, eliminating rodent populations, especially ground squirrels, meadow voles, deer mice, rats, and house mice, is an important step in making an area less attractive for snakes. Rattlesnakes cannot dig burrows but will use those dug by rodents. After controlling rodents, fill in all burrows with soil or sod and pack down firmly.
Exclusion
Rattlesnakes may seek refuge beneath buildings. If there is a gap or opening, they will enter and inhabit a building, just as house mice do. Sealing all cracks and other openings greater than 1/4inch can prevent them from entering. Gaps beneath garage doors are often large enough to permit snakes to enter, especially young ones. In summer, rattlesnakes may be attracted to cool and/or damp places, such as beneath buildings and in basements. Access doors on crawl spaces should be inspected carefully for breaks or gaps. Use caution if you must crawl under a house or other building. Hot tub or swimming pool pump enclosures may provide cover if they are not well sealed. The dampness associated with ornamental water fountains, pools, and fishponds may also make the surrounding area attractive to snakes.
Fences
Snakes can be excluded from an area by installing a snake-proof fence. While expensive, fences are often necessary for children’s play areas. Be sure to make gates tight fitting and keep vegetation and debris from collecting around the fence. Snakes can climb accumulated vegetation and gain access to the top of the fence. Check the fence frequently to be sure it has not been damaged in any way.
Repellents
Over the years various home remedies have been suggested to repel snakes, such as placing a horsehair rope around your sleeping bag, sprinkling sulfur dust, or scattering mothballs around the area to be protected. Unfortunately, none of these remedies work. Despite what you may hear, there are no plants that repel snakes. Currently, several commercially available chemical snake repellents are on the market, but none of them have been proven to work well enough to warrant recommendation.
Biological Control
Several predators feed on rattlesnakes, including the kingsnake, which swallows them whole. Unfortunately, the number of rattlesnakes eaten by predators is insignificant in reducing the problem you might encounter around your home or garden. For this reason, relocating kingsnakes to your property is not recommended.
Other Control Methods
Remember, if left alone, a snake is likely to move on to another area. Also recall that most rattlesnake bites occur when inexperienced people try to pick up, pester, move, or kill a rattlesnake. If you would prefer the snake be removed, it is best to call a professional pest or wildlife control operator who specializes in snake removal. Your local county agricultural commissioner or UC Cooperative Extension office may be able to direct you to professionals who remove rattlesnakes. A final course of action may be to kill the rattlesnake. However, this option is not generally recommended since rattlesnakes only bite in self defense and attempting to kill them can, and sometimes does, result in a person getting bitten. Even a dead rattlesnake can have a bite reflex and is capable of delivering venom. Rattlesnakes are natural and important predators and automatic killing of them is not recommended any more than is the automatic killing of coyotes, mountain lions, or bears, all of which can very rarely harm people.
What Can be Done to Prevent a Bite?
Hands, feet, and ankles are the most common sites for rattlesnake bites. Using some common sense rules can prevent most snake bites.
- Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking in areas where you cannot clearly see where you are placing your feet. Always wear hiking boots.
- Always stay on paths. Avoid tall grass, weeds, and heavy undebrush where snakes may be present.
- Always look for concealed snakes before picking up rocks, sticks, or firewood.
- Always check carefully around stumps or logs before sitting.
- When climbing, always look before putting your hands in a new location. Snakes can climb walls, trees, and rocks and are frequently found at high altitudes.
- Never grab what appear to be sticks or branches while swimming; rattlesnakes are excellent swimmers.
- Baby rattlesnakes are venomous! They can and do bite. Leave them alone.
- Never hike alone. Always have a buddy to help in case of an emergency. Learn basic lifesaving skills.
- Never handle freshly killed snakes. You may still be bitten.
- Never tease a snake to see how far it can strike. You can be several feet from the snake and still be within striking distance.
- Don’t keep rattlesnakes as pets. Many rattlesnake bites occur when people tease or play with their “pet” rattlesnake.
- Teach children to respect snakes and to leave them alone. Curious children who pick up snakes are frequently bitten.
- Always give snakes the right of way!
References
Walter, F. G., U. Stolz, F. Shirazi, J. McNally. 2009. Epidemiology of severe and fatal rattlesnake bites. Philadelphia: American Association of Poison Control Centers’ Annual Reports. Clin. Toxicol. 47:663-669.
Salmon, T. P., D. A. Whisson, and R. E. Marsh. 2006. Wildlife Pest Control Around Gardens and Homes. 2nd ed. Oakland: Univ. Calif. Agric. Nat. Res. Publ. 21385.
FAQs
Rattlesnakes / Home and Landscape? ›
They live in a variety of habitats, including forest, grasslands, scrub brush, swamps, and deserts, and they are also capable swimmers. Almost all reptiles, including rattlesnakes, are ectothermic (cold-blooded).
What type of habitat do rattlesnakes live in? ›They live in a variety of habitats, including forest, grasslands, scrub brush, swamps, and deserts, and they are also capable swimmers. Almost all reptiles, including rattlesnakes, are ectothermic (cold-blooded).
What attracts rattlesnakes to your yard? ›Areas with a lot of wood, mulch, or piles of leaves attract small mammals like rodents that are snakes' prey. These creatures are likely attracting the rattlesnakes to your yard. So in order to get rid of rattlesnakes, you'll need to clear out and remove any clutter that attracts their food source.
Do rattlesnakes stay in the same area? ›Western Rattlesnakes Den Together.
Snakes will return to the same den year after year, and they even coil up with other species – it is not uncommon to see a non-venomous western racer snake emerge in the spring alongside the rattlers.
'Snake fencing' is quarter inch mesh (also available in metal wire) installed along an existing fence. Fencing this small doesn't allow even the smallest of rattlesnakes in, and if it's installed properly can totally prevent snakes from gaining access into your yard.
What keeps rattlesnakes away from your home? ›Use a snake repellent such as Snake Out around your yard and perimeter to ward off Rattlesnakes and deter them from the area. You could also try to use a Solutions Human Live Trap with live or dead rodents to use as bait.
Where do rattlesnakes make their nests? ›Rattlesnake Den Locations
As snakes are not capable of digging holes, it is common for rattlesnakes to make dens out of vacant rodent burrows. Snakes typically seek out locations on high hillsides with plenty of sun exposure. Rattlesnakes can spend the winter under logs and piles of wood or rock as well.
While they can be out any time, rattlesnakes are most active in the morning and from dusk into the night. They hunt mice and rodents in darkness because they can sense body heat with special organs on their face.
What do rattlesnakes hate the smell of? ›Ammonia: Snakes dislike the odor of ammonia so one option is to spray it around any affected areas. Another option is to soak a rug in ammonia and place it in an unsealed bag near any areas inhabited by snakes to deter them away.
Do coffee grounds keep snakes away? ›Other Natural Repellents
Mothballs — place them around the perimeter, and their pungent smell will repel snakes. Vinegar — mix it with water and spray often. Caffeine — sprinkle coffee grounds or instant coffee granules. Spices — chili powder and cayenne pepper work the best.
Where do rattlesnakes go during the day? ›
During the summer, rattlesnakes prefer cool and damp places, which may include basements, hot tubs, water fountains and swimming pools. During inactivity in the winter, rattlesnakes hide under rock crevices, beneath dense vegetation and in rodent burrows.
Do rattlesnakes go under houses? ›Whether searching for prey or looking for an escape from the heat, a rattlesnake will hunt or den in any quiet, shady spot. This includes areas under decks and porches as well as basements and crawl spaces. Properties with rodent infestations are far more likely to have rattlesnakes under the house.
What time of year do rattlesnakes have their babies? ›But baby rattlesnakes are born in July and August, making these two months especially dangerous for hikers, gardeners, children and others at high risk of exposure to rattlesnake bites.
What are rattlesnakes afraid of? ›Rattlesnakes will purposely attack only animals smaller than themselves, such as rodents, unless they are frightened by noise, vibrations or certain odors. They are afraid of humans (mainly because of our size) and would rather run than fight if possible.
What do snakes hate? ›There are many scents snakes don't like including smoke, cinnamon, cloves, onions, garlic, and lime. You can use oils or sprays containing these fragrances or grow plants featuring these scents.
What do rattlesnakes hate? ›Rattlesnakes hate the smell of garlic, ammonia, cloves, naphthalene, sulfur, and other powerful scents. While scent deterrents are not foolproof, they may encourage rattlesnakes to find somewhere else to live and hunt.
What is rattlesnakes natural enemy? ›Eagles, hawks, roadrunners, kingsnakes, coyote, bobcats or fox are predators who look at these snakes as a source of food.
What animal deters rattlesnakes? ›Ground squirrels use an infrared signal to deter rattlesnake predation.
Do snakes come back to the same spot? ›If not scared away, snakes tend to be habitual, Amarello said. They'll return to a place that provides them with their needs, such as a garden.
Does one snake mean more? ›When it's cooler, snakes are typically out moving. Just because you see one does not mean there are more.
What temperature kills rattlesnakes? ›
Estivation …
A rattlesnake will die when its body temperature gets too far above 110F (Klauber, pg 418-420). If you try and get the mail barefoot at 9am, you know how tough it is for them. This also means that at temperatures reaching 119F like it did yesterday, just being outside in the shade is lethal to most snakes.
The large majority of species live in the American Southwest and Mexico. Four species may be found east of the Mississippi River, and two in South America. In the United States, the state with the most types of rattlesnakes is Arizona, with 13.
What time of year do rattlesnakes go away? ›Rattlesnake “season” is typically April through October. During the hottest days they may be found in cool, shady areas. Although rattlesnakes are generally not aggressive, they will strike when they are threatened or provoked. They usually retreat if they can.
What are rattlesnakes worst enemy? ›Enemies: As part of the web of life, deer, hawks, owls, coyotes, foxes, and kingsnakes will attack and kill rattlesnakes. However, humans are perhaps its greatest enemy even though rattlesnakes may benefit humans in controlling rodent populations.
What is rattlesnakes biggest enemy? ›The principal natural enemies of rattlesnakes are such mammals as deer and badgers, certain birds such as hawks and roadrunners, and, among the snakes, king snakes and racers. Various domestic animals also destroy rattlers.
What attracts snakes to your house? ›Snakes enter a building because they're lured in by dark, damp, cool areas or in search of small animals, like rats and mice, for food. Snakes can be discouraged from entering a home in several ways. Keeping the vegetation around the house cut short can make the home less attractive to small animals and snakes.
Does Pine Sol keep snakes away? ›and put down inside the bottle of Pine Sol. Just take the spray and spray it around your house. This is good for up to 3 months. This will keep all the mice, snakes and rats away.
How do I keep snakes away permanently? ›- Spray the Hose. ...
- Trap With a Garbage Can. ...
- Use Snake Repellent. ...
- Eliminate Standing Water. ...
- Set a Trap. ...
- Remove Shelter. ...
- Fill in Burrows. ...
- Keep Your Grass Short.
Epsom Salt: Sprinkling Epsom salt around your home or garden will create a strong odor snakes won't want to come close to. Mothballs: Mothballs contain naphthalene, which is a snake repellent.
Where do rattlesnakes bite the most? ›Hands, feet, and ankles are the most common sites for rattlesnake bites. Using some common sense rules can prevent most snake bites. Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking in areas where you cannot clearly see where you are placing your feet.
Where do rattlesnakes hide at night? ›
Where do rattlesnakes sleep? They may seek protection under a rock, log, or in a crevice, but they may also coil near these objects or a tree, or even in the open to snooze. It's tough to know when rattlesnakes are sleeping, as they have no eyelids, so their eyes are always open!
Do rattlesnakes go out in the rain? ›A: During the warm season, yes. Rain from monsoonal moisture (or even remnants of tropical weather systems) on warm days can actually lead to the highest levels of rattlesnake activity.
Do rattlesnakes crawl around at night? ›Depending on weather and threatening conditions such wildfires; rattlesnakes may roam at any time of the day or night. If walking at night, be sure to use a flashlight. barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas. When hiking, stick to well-used trails if all possible.
Do rattlesnakes live close together? ›But rattlesnakes can be very social with each other, and can actually be caring parents. “So they all hang out by themselves,” Taylor said. “But they'll get together during mating season. We noticed that female rattlesnakes tend to hang out with one another.”
Can rattlesnakes go over walls? ›Rattlesnakes do have some climbing ability, but they can't climb up straight walls or metal. Rattlesnakes do sometimes hang out in trees or low branches of bushes, or climb through cracks in rocks … but these rough and well-edged surfaces are a very different situation than the modern block wall or wire mesh.
What month are rattlesnakes most active? ›Rattlers like it warm, but not too warm, so they're most likely to be active during the spring and fall—the same times of year that humans like to spend outdoors. Rattlesnakes come out mostly during spring and fall.
How far away can you hear a rattlesnake? ›The rattle of an alarmed rattlesnake can be heard from 60 feet away. The average rattlesnake has a life span of an amazing 20 years.
Do baby rattlesnakes stay close to their mother? ›Rattlesnake babies are around 10 inches long when they are born. In contrast to many other reptiles, they stay close to their mother during the first week or 10 days of their existence. Due to predators, unfavorable weather, and malnutrition, young rattlesnakes have a limited probability of surviving.
Should you run from a rattlesnake? ›Remain calm and do not panic. Stay at least 5 feet from the snake. Make sure to give it plenty of space.
Are dogs scared of rattlesnakes? ›Dogs generally don't instinctively know to avoid rattlesnakes, and as such, they can easily become victims of their bites. Although the snakes do not bite unprovoked, a dog nose invading their space is enough to send the reptile into defense mode and you to an emergency animal hospital.
What to do if a rattlesnake is near you? ›
- Remain calm and do not panic. ...
- Do not try to kill the snake. ...
- Do not throw anything at the snake, like rocks or sticks. ...
- Alert other people to the snake's location. ...
- Keep your dog on a leash when hiking or camping. ...
- If you hear a rattle, don't jump or panic.
Calcium cyanide is a good chemical for killing snakes taking refuge in burrows, while there are several gases that sometimes work in fumigating dens.
What pets keep snakes away? ›Common snake predators include cats, raccoons, pigs, turkeys, guinea hens, and foxes. Keeping any of these animals around your home will help deter snakes from coming near.
What surfaces do snakes avoid? ›Snakes can't move or hide easily on gravel and other hard surfaces. Remove bird feeders, birdbaths, and other sources of food and water. Food and water sources attract snakes and their prey – mice, rats, and insects. Keep pet food inside.
What brings rattlesnakes out? ›Areas with a lot of wood, mulch, or piles of leaves attract small mammals like rodents that are snakes' prey. These creatures are likely attracting the rattlesnakes to your yard. So in order to get rid of rattlesnakes, you'll need to clear out and remove any clutter that attracts their food source.
What kind of plants keep rattlesnakes away? ›Snake-repellent plants, such as marigolds, allium, lemongrass, mother-in-law's tongue, garlic, wormwood, pink agapanthus, snakeroots, basil and yellow alder will all keep snakes away naturally.
What time of day do snakes come out? ›Snakes are at their most active when it's cool out. They move around most in the early morning and around dusk. Snakes hunt in tall grass, weeds, and other sources of vegetation. Around your home, they'll seek out shady or dark places where they can rest and cool down.
Where are most rattlesnakes located? ›The large majority of species live in the American Southwest and Mexico. Four species may be found east of the Mississippi River, and two in South America. In the United States, the state with the most types of rattlesnakes is Arizona, with 13.
Where do rattlesnakes live and sleep? ›Where do rattlesnakes sleep? They may seek protection under a rock, log, or in a crevice, but they may also coil near these objects or a tree, or even in the open to snooze. It's tough to know when rattlesnakes are sleeping, as they have no eyelids, so their eyes are always open! This is true of all snakes.
What are the habits of rattlesnakes? ›Habits and Lifestyle
Western rattlesnakes are usually active at dawn and dusk but during hot summer may become nocturnal. They may come out sometimes during the day to bask in the sun, but usually spend most of the day hidden in their shelters. During cold months they hibernate in mammal burrows, crevices or caves.
What is the habitat of a snake? ›
Snakes live in a wide variety of habitats including forests, swamps, grasslands, deserts and in both fresh and salt water. Some are active at night, others during the day. Snakes are predators and eat a wide variety of animals, including rodents, insects, birds' eggs and young birds.
What animals keep rattlesnakes away? ›Use Natural Predators
Snakes have a few natural predators that can help keep them away. Common snake predators include cats, raccoons, pigs, turkeys, guinea hens, and foxes. Keeping any of these animals around your home will help deter snakes from coming near.
While they can be out any time, rattlesnakes are most active in the morning and from dusk into the night. They hunt mice and rodents in darkness because they can sense body heat with special organs on their face.
Do rattlesnakes go in houses? ›Unlike most pests, a rattlesnake in the house doesn't gain entry by climbing or digging. Snakes get inside homes through holes in the foundation near the ground. Baby rattlers are often small enough to slip through the gaps under a door.
Are rattlesnakes easy to find? ›Detection. It is difficult to detect rattlesnakes because they are not easy to see or to find in their hiding places. Be alert to the potential for their presence during the times of year when rattlesnakes are generally active in your region.
Where do snakes go at night? ›They move around most in the early morning and around dusk. Snakes hunt in tall grass, weeds, and other sources of vegetation. Around your home, they'll seek out shady or dark places where they can rest and cool down. Snakes also tend to look for humid areas where they can stay hydrated.
What state has the most snakes? ›Texas is the most snake-infested state in the U.S., with 68 snake species scattered all over the Lone Star State, especially concentrated in central Texas. Arizona has 52 species of snakes and more rattlesnake species than any other U.S. state.