Heatwave in California Leads to Increase in Rattlesnake Activity

California’s relentless heat wave has caught many off guard, leading to unexpected encounters with wildlife, particularly rattlesnakes. A striking incident in San Diego County has captured attention, where a video shows a rattlesnake swimming across a backyard pool.

In Rancho Santa Fe, a homeowner had quite the shock upon discovering a nearly three-foot-long rattlesnake in their backyard. Seeking expert help, they reached out to Bruce Ireland, a seasoned snake wrangler and founder of The Snake Wranglers. Ireland documented the rescue on his Instagram, showcasing the tense moments.

“This snake probably swam around in circles all night,” Ireland explained to 10News. “It couldn’t find a way out.”

When Ireland arrived, the rattlesnake appeared to be in poor condition. “Its head was up, so I knew it was getting air, but it didn’t seem to be in great shape,” he noted.

The snake wrangler said the snake looked in pretty bad condition when he arrived. 

“Its head was up, so I knew it was breathing air, but didn’t look like it was in very good shape.”

Ireland removed the snake from the pool and said it’s just one of many encounters lately, noting there’s been an uptick in reports of the venomous reptiles as they emerge from hibernation amid unseasonably warm weather.

“This year, it’s been busier than prior years and started earlier,” Ireland said. “I think with all the rain, everything flourishes.”

His social media is filled with recent snake discoveries people have stumbled upon in their backyards, garages, trash cans, behind cars, and on hiking trails. 

Ireland pointed out in this clip on Tuesday how easy it is to just step on one of these dangerous reptiles as they are completely camouflaged against the dirt and rocks, challenging the viewer to find the snake.

The reptiles’ venom is designed to kill its rodent prey, giving them “an important role in population control of small mammals such as rats and mice,” according to the County of San Diego Parks and Recreation. “Because of the part they play in local ecosystems, they are fully protected within San Diego County Parks.”

Cort Klopping with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said the best plan is to stay alert when outdoors and stay on well-used trails. Avoid tall grass, weeds, and heavy underbrush.

Klopping previously told The Post that they do warn the public that snakes are most prevalent during warmer seasons, especially between April and October.

And warmer temperatures have already hit the Golden State as the heat wave in Southern California is expected to shatter records — with temperatures set to surge 35 degrees above normal and into the triple digits.

The National Weather Service warned Monday that “a dangerous heat wave” will scorch the region this week, with the mercury peaking Tuesday through Friday.

“Temperatures will continue to be warm overnight and may not provide much relief from heat stress,” NWS Los Angeles wrote on X, adding that many daily and potentially monthly March records would be broken.

The prolonged heat this early in the year poses concerning risks to residents, meteorologists warned.

“There will be a high risk for heat illness for everyone — especially in locations away from the coast. If you or someone you know is at risk for heat-related problems, please make cooling plans now for the rest of this week,” the NWS warned.

Typically, during March, Los Angeles and the larger coastal region see temperatures in the high 60s, rarely climbing into the 70s.

The NWS has advised residents to stay hydrated throughout the week and check in on neighbors and loved ones during the heat.

Officials recommend staying in air-conditioned spaces when possible and avoiding outdoor activities, especially between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Experts also warn residents not to leave cars parked without shade for long periods and never to leave a person or pet inside a car without air conditioning, as temperatures can become deadly within minutes.

The public is also urged to recognize the signs of heat illness, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

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