A Western Rattlesnake rests in a rock pile in a yard. It was relocated to a safer area.(Central Coast Snake Services) The recent warm weather is bringing
Central Coast Snake Services owner and Cal Poly biology professor Emily Taylor said because of the cold spring, the rattlesnake population boom has been late to start.
The height of rattlesnake season typically begins in April or May, but animal experts say the severe drought and heat waves on the Central Coast are making the snakes come out earlier.
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.”