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Here’s what to do (and not do) if a rattlesnake bites you on a California hike

Sacramento Bee - 5/27/2023

Picture this: You are hiking on a local trail and hear a ”ch-ch-ch” inches from you when all of a sudden the worst happens.

You get bitten by a rattlesnake.

The skin near the puncture wounds begins to burn or sting.

As more people venture outdoors across Northern California for a walk, hike or camping trip, here’s what you need to know to stay safe during rattlesnake season:

What do I do (and not do) if I get bitten?

What to do

Stay calm to slow the spread of the venom

If you can’t get to the hospital right away, lay or sit down with the bite below the level of the heart. Then, wash the wound with warm, soapy water and cover it with clean, dry material.

Here’s what not to do, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

How to identify rattlesnakes

The western rattlesnake is the most common in California and can be found from sea level to 7,000-foot elevation, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The seven different species, most commonly recognized by the distinct “ch ch ch” sound their rattles make, can be found across the state.

The snakes can, however, lose their rattles or simply decide not to use them. In that case, you can identify them by their gray or light brown exterior and triangular-shaped head. They usually range between 2 feet and 4 feet in length and can easily camouflage to their surroundings.

The reptile will typically hang out under rocks, logs and woodpiles, according to the National Park Service.

Once the snake is ready to raise its body temperature, it will move into sight.

How to avoid rattlesnakes

While most snake bites occur when the animal is handled or accidentally touched, remember you are not their prey.

“Rattlesnakes aren’t aggressive to humans unless threatened or frightened,” Stephen Nett, a Bodega Bay-based naturalist, wrote on Sonoma County Regional Park’s blog.

The notorious snakes are typically shy of bigger animals and instead feed on mice and other rodents. They will rattle if they sense prey and try to escape.

Let them do so.

A rattlesnake can strike as far as two-thirds of its body length. Remain at least 10 steps away from it, or as far as possible, if you encounter one on a trail.

If you do get bit, chances are the wound will be on your hand, foot or ankle, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Here are the USDA’s tips to avoid rattlesnakes while outdoors:

Prepare for your hike

While on your trip

Other tips

If you plan to remain local this holiday weekend, remember rattlesnakes are “fairly” common along the American River Parkway, according to the Sacramento Audubon Society, especially along the upper half.

What if my dog gets bitten?

Take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Rattlesnake bite symptoms include puncture wounds, swelling, bleeding, pain, agitation or depression, according to UC Davis.

If your dog gets bitten in a remote location where a vet may not be nearby be sure to rinse the wound and reduce blood flow to the area.

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