KCBX's Angel Russell reports.
The return of drought conditions across California has forced many animals to seek refuge closer to where humans live. While bears have been spotted recently in urban areas, an even more dangerous predator — rattlesnakes — are moving in closer to people's homes.
There’s been an uptick in calls from residents throughout the Central Coast reporting snakes slithering their way into peoples yards.
Dr. Emily Taylor with Central Coast Snake Services said it’s because the snakes are desperate for water.
“So they are moving into peoples yards at higher rates than they normally are to try to drink from bird baths, leaky faucets, pools," Taylor said. "Anything they can find.”