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SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Rattlesnake season has officially arrived in Santa Barbara County and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is advising residents on what to do if they encounter one while hiking or near their home.
“Snakes are often misunderstood. They provide significant ecosystem benefits, such as rodent control, and are an important part of California’s unique biodiversity,” said CDFW’s Conflict Programs Coordinator Vicky Monroe.
The department said most native snakes to the state are harmless, however, rattlesnakes are a venomous species and should be avoided at all times.
Officials state that rattlesnakes can be found on both the coast and desert areas of California. They are often attracted to areas around homes with heavy brush, under wood piles where rodents can hide and even well-manicured landscapes where they can bask in the sun.