As Weather Warms, When Will You See Rattlesnakes, Or Other Slithering Critters in Tri Cities?

Many of us might go years, or our lifetimes, without ever seeing a live rattlesnake, but they are here.

  When Will They Start to Come Out?

Fish and Wildlife experts say most commonly we see garden snakes, or gopher snakes, who are smaller and less thick.  Sometimes a nightsnake is seen in Eastern WA.  But they do not resemble the Western Rattlesnake.

State records indicate the longest one ever officially tagged in the Northwest (after it was dead!) was 59 inches, which is 1 in under five feet long!

 Where Do They Habitate?

Like many other wildlife, the explosive growth of the Columbia Basin has pushed critters further away from population centers.  Western Rattelsnakes prefer brush, cover and more rural areas.  They have been found in construction zones, and they do wander into yards.

Get our free mobile app

But most likely you would see one while out hiking or recreating.  Being reptiles, they will start to come out of dens when the weather warms, usually late March into April.

Rattlesnakes give birth to live snakes, not eggs, like some.  The Western Rattlesnake is rather distinctive, with its 'pock marked' looking head, a rattle on its tail,  and have large dark distinctive spots surrounded by lighter lines.  Most rattlers in our area average between 18 inches and 2 feet, maybe a little larger for a mature reptile.

While out hiking, stay on trails, wear long pants and at least hiking boots or footwear that covers above the ankle.   Experts say if you come across one, slowly back away, and take your pictures from a distance, and keep dogs on a leash.

How Do Most Rattlesnake Bites Occur?

Most rattlers, if they are out of their den, will sense approaching 'creatures' and make noise with their rattle---WDFW says they avoid confrontation and other animals unless they are hunting. The rattle is a 'warning.'   stay away!

 READ MORE:  The 5 Most Snake-Infested Hiking Trails in WA 

Most injuries involve dogs not on a leash who go after a snake and get bitten.  Stay out of rough brush and on trails, and you won't run the risk of stepping on one--which is one of the most common ways people get bit.

As the weather warms, and you're hiking, be on the lookout---and if you can, bring a long walking stick. It could be used to 'flip' one away if you get too close.