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SNAKES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
The snakes you may encounter in Southern California are typically unaggressive and simply wish to be left alone. Check local postings for information. The most common dangerous snake in Southern California is the rattlesnake. Rattlesnakes have been observed by members of the OC Hiking during events in Peters Canyon, Crystal Cove, Chino Hills, Aliso and Woods Canyon, Deep Creek, Joshua Tree, etc.
How do I Identify a 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 Òbody languageÓ will not tip you off that they are about to strike.
Why are Rattlesnake babies more dangerous than adults?
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.
Baby rattlesnakes don't have functional rattles until after a few moltings. A new rattle is added at each molting, a few per year. The number of rattles will not tell you the age of the snake.
What is the most dangerous type of Rattlesnake?
The most dangerous rattlesnakes are baby rattlesnakes and the Mojave Rattlesnake.
The average rattler has hemotoxic venom which causes tissue damage and disrupts blood clotting. Mojave Rattlesnakes have neurotoxic venom, which can cause paralysis and breathing difficulties.
A 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Copyright © 2006 to Present OC Hiking Club/Hike Everywhere, All rights reserved. Distribution or publication of this site's content without prior written permission is prohibited.
