It might not be a pleasant thought but it is the time of year in Utah in which rattlesnakes are on the move trying to find water and rodents. In the summer the snakes are most active at dawn and dusk. There are five species of rattlesnakes in Utah, with the most common being the Great Basin rattlesnake. All rattlesnakes are protected under Utah law so it is illegal to harass or kill them. Most of the time the snakes will try to avoid humans but as Drew Dittmer, DWR Native Species Coordinator, states, “that changes if a snake thinks it’s threatened and there’s no way to escape. In that case, the snake will often strike to protect itself. Just don’t approach it. Give it plenty of space, and leave it alone. Respect the snake, and you will be safe.” Some of the tips the DWR offer include to remain calm and don’t panic. Stay five feet from the snake and warn everyone to stay away, especially children and pets. For more tips, visit wildlife.utah.gov.
