Snakes are still slithering
The intense summer heat is over for another year. But don’t tell that to the belly-slithering crotalus viridis! (Or, as they’re more commonly known, prairie rattlesnakes.) Seasonal migration is underway, as the snakes move back to their den sites. But they haven’t settled in for their winter sleep quite yet.
Rattlesnakes aren’t an uncommon sight in southern Alberta. Even during these slightly cooler mornings and evenings, you’ll find them in the usual spots: dry coulee slopes, in cottonwood forests and on the river floodplain. But every so often, they also slither into residential areas bordering the coulees. With that in mind, here are a few reminders about what to do if you encounter a rattlesnake:
- Stop
- Remain calm
- Look around to identify where the snake(s) are
- Back away slowly
- Give the snake space
And remember, even for people with extreme cases of ophidiophobia (fear of snakes): snakes don’t want to interact with you, either! They’d much rather retreat than engage.
We also want to protect our four-legged furry friends. So, be sure to keep your pooch on a leash when walking in the River Valley.
This helpful webpage also offers tips on how to avoid rattlesnakes altogether and what to do if you are bitten by a rattlesnake. If you need a rattlesnake removed from an urban area, you can contact the Rattlesnake Call Line at 403-332-6806.
Our rattling friends will be tucked away for winter soon. Until then, let’s keep an eye out for our cold-blooded neighbours and keep everyone safe!
For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.