So You Think You Saw a Slithery Sir (or Madam) in California? A Guide to Golden State Snakery (the Not-So-Deadly Kind)
Ah, California, the land of sunshine, beaches, and...rattlers? Don't let the Hollywood portrayals fool you, while there are some venomous snakes slithering around the Golden State, most encounters are more likely to end in a surprised squeak from you than a dramatic showdown.
But knowledge is power, people (and by power, I mean the power to avoid freaking out)! So, let's shed some light (because seriously, some of these snakes are amazing colors) on the venomous residents of California.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
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| Which Snakes Are Poisonous In California |
California's Rattlesnake Roundup
California rattles the cage (get it?) with the highest number of rattlesnake species in the US, a whopping seven. These guys are the only venomous snakes in California, so if you hear that distinctive rattle, it's best to give them a wide berth.
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
- The Western Rattlesnake: This is your classic rattler, found throughout most of the state except the deserts. Think brown with darker brown splotches, and that tell-tale rattle.
- The Mojave Rattlesnake: This desert dweller is the most venomous snake in California (and all of North America!), with a potent mix of nasty toxins. It can be tan, yellow, or even greenish, so keep your eyes peeled.
But Wait, There's More (Thankfully Non-Venomous)!
California has a whole host of other slithering friends that are completely harmless. In fact, they're beneficial because they munch on pesky rodents and insects. Here are a couple to keep an eye out for:
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- The California Kingsnake: This brightly colored fella is a common sight, and a great snake to have around your yard. They're excellent mousers and completely harmless.
- The Gopher Snake: Another great rodent-removal service, these guys come in a variety of colors and patterns. They're also constrictors, which means they squeeze their prey to death, not unlike a hug that goes a little too long.
"Hey, That Snake Doesn't Rattle!" Don't Panic (Yet)
Just because a snake doesn't have a rattle doesn't mean it's safe. There's one exception in California, the Coral Snake. These brightly colored snakes are actually venomous, but thankfully, they're very rare and tend to shy away from humans. Remember the rhyme: "Red touch yellow, kill a fellow. Red touch black, safe on your back." Although some non-venomous snakes mimic this pattern, it's a good rule of thumb.
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
Important Reminder: Even if you're pretty sure a snake is harmless, it's always best to admire them from afar. Leave them be and they'll leave you be.
Bonus Tip: If you're hiking or spending time outdoors, wear sturdy shoes and long pants. This will help protect you from any surprise scaly encounters.
FAQ: California Snake Encounters
- How to Identify a Rattlesnake: Look for the rattle on their tail, and triangular-shaped head.
- How to Behave Around a Rattlesnake: Stay calm, back away slowly, and give the snake plenty of space.
- How to Avoid Attracting Snakes: Keep your yard free of debris and rodent attractants.
- How to Help a Scared Child Who Just Saw a Snake: Explain that most snakes are harmless, and show them pictures of the beneficial ones.
- How to Remove a Snake From Your Property: If you have a snake in your house or yard, call a professional wildlife removal service. Don't try to handle it yourself!
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