Rattlesnake Encounters in Redlands

The City of Redlands holds hundreds of acres of open space for all to enjoy. These open spaces contain miles of multi-use trails, preserved land, and restored native habitat, and are maintained by the Redlands Conservancy. While the trails are well-kept and used by the public, visitors should always be aware of rattlesnakes while recreating. Practice these safety tips while enjoying Redlands open space. Remember, we are going into their habitat.

Rattlesnakes are California’s only venomous native snakes. They are widespread and are commonly seen basking in the sun on hot days. Rattlesnakes want to avoid people, and bites don’t happen often. However, stay aware and respect their habitat to prevent dangerous encounters.

• Watch where you step on trails.
• Never go off trail or into tall grass where you can’t see the ground.
• Check your surroundings before sitting down.
• Snakes may not rattle, giving no warning of their presence.
• Rattlesnakes don’t need to be coiled up to strike.

• If you see a rattlesnake, stay calm. Slowly back away and alert your party. Do not approach the snake.
• Most snakes want to avoid human interaction and will move away if given space.
• Dead rattlesnakes can also inject venom if handled without proper precautions and should be avoided.
• In the event of a snake bite, call 911 immediately.

Click here to view the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s comprehensive article on rattlesnake safety and bites.

If you encounter a rattlesnake in your home, stay calm! Here’s what to do:

• Move all family members and pets away from the snake.
• If the snake is in an enclosed space, like a bathroom or shed, close the door and block any openings, keeping the snake contained.
• DO NOT handle or relocate the snake.
• Call the City of Redlands Animal Services for guidance and  appropriate response to the situation.
  • Redlands Animal Services
    504 Kansas Street
    Redlands, CA 92373
    (909) 798-7644
    
    For after-hour emergencies involving immediate public safety concerns, call RPD dispatch at (909) 798-7681.

Gopher snakes are another snake species local to Redlands. They have evolved to mimic rattlesnakes to scare away predators. They will even rub their tails on the ground to recreate the sound of a rattle. Gopher snakes are completely harmless and great at keeping rodent populations down. Gopher snakes get their name because they live in old gopher burrows.

It can be hard to tell the difference between a gopher snake and a rattlesnake. Gopher or not, avoid all snakes you encounter in the wild. If a snake is inside your home or creating an immediate public safety concern, call the City of Redlands Animal Services for guidance.

Call 911 immediately if you or someone you are with is bitten by a rattlesnake.