Rattlesnake

Conservation and Management

California is home to nearly 50 native snake species, including 7 species of rattlesnake. One species, the red diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber) is a Species of Special Concern.

Snake Fungal Disease (SFD) is a newly emerging disease in snakes and caused by a fungus, (Ophidiomyces ophidiicola). It may only cause mild infection in many snakes, but is known to cause significant mortality in species of special concern in other states, such as the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) not found here.

• Since 2008, SFD has been detected in more than 30 snake species in North America and Europe. It is present in at least 38 states.
• In 2019, California confirmed its first two known cases of SFD in a California kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) and non-native Florida water snake (Nerodia fasciata pictiventris).
• How SFD may impact snakes in California is unknown. Report sick or dead snakes to CDFW. For more information, visit the "Disease and Mortality Monitoring" Snake Fungal Disease page.

NOTE: A Commercial Native Rattlesnake Permit is required for every person who possess, propagate, exchange, or transport native rattlesnakes for commercialized venom extraction, or sell, import, or export native rattlesnake venom or products derived from native rattlesnake venom for commercial purposes, or purchase native rattlesnakes from a biological supply house, permitted through Section 651, for the purpose of developing and selling biomedical and therapeutic products.

Science and Research

CDFW continues working to better understand the complex conservation needs of the rattlesnakes and other native reptiles. Research, disease surveillance and monitoring, is vital to applying an adaptive approach to managing their population in California.

Potential Conflict and Coexistence

Rattlesnakes typically avoid people. Bites are uncommon, but can occur if a snake feels threatened. Most bites occur between April and October when snakes and humans are most active outdoors. Prevention is key to avoiding unwanted encounters. To learn more, visit the Human-Wildlife Conflict Program page.

Remember!

• Stay alert when outdoors.
• Wear sturdy boots and loose-fitting long pants. DO NOT wear sandals or flip-flops in brushy areas.
• Stay on well-used trails. Avoid tall grass, weeds, and heavy underbrush.
• Check rocks, stumps or logs before sitting down.
• Shake out sleeping bag and tent before use.
• Let others know where you are going, when you plan to return, and carry a cell phone. Hike with a companion when possible.
• DO NOT grab “sticks” in water. Rattlesnakes can swim.
• DO NOT let dogs off leash. Dogs are at increased risk when sniffing the ground near brushy areas.
• DO NOT try to touch or handle a snake, dead or alive. Dead rattlers may still inject venom shortly after death.

Be Rattlesnake Safe

Rattlesnake bites are uncommon, but can and do still occur. On rare occasions, rattlesnake bites can cause severe injury or death. Prevention is key to human safety.

In the event of a snake bite

• Stay calm - but act quickly!
• Remove items which may constrict swelling (e.g., watches, rings, shoes).
• Transport victim to the nearest medical facility.
  • Do NOT apply a tourniquet.
  • Do NOT pack the bite area in ice.
  • Do NOT cut the wound with a knife or razor.
  • Do NOT use your mouth to suck out the venom.
• If a pet is bitten - Speak to your veterinarian about canine rattlesnake vaccine options.

For more information, call the California Poison Control System(opens in new tab) at (800) 222-1222.

In the event of an emergency situation, call 9-1-1 and seek medical attention immediately.