Rattlesnakes, like all terrestrial snakes, can and do climb! It’s not uncommon for a rattlesnake to be found in a bush, tree, up in rocks, or any number of surprising places. This is a very different situation than a rattlesnake climbing straight up a relatively smooth surface. A common misconception, fueled by a combination of a general lack of knowledge of snake physiology, is that rattlesnakes can easily climb up and over a backyard block wall.
So … let’s put it to the test! If rattlesnakes can climb over a block wall, they will have no problem getting over a shorter version. Right?
The Experiment: Put rattlesnakes in an approximation of a standard Phoenix-area block wall and see if they can climb out.
Watch the experiment and additional information here:
Whenever we talk about Rattlesnake Fencing, we get comments saying it can’t possibly work because rattlesnakes can just climb over the wall. Well … let’s see if they can!
We put it to the test with every species of rattlesnake in our service area, along with a couple of non-venomous snakes. According to the comments, all of them should be able to climb the wall and escape without any trouble. But what actually happened isn’t a surprise to anyone with a bit of knowledge of how snakes work.
Snakes included in the experiment:
Adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
Two juvenile Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes
Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake
Mojave Rattlesnake
Sonoran Sidewinder
Tiger Rattlesnake
Blacktailed Rattlesnake
Newborn (days old) Western Diamondback Rattlesankes
California Kingsnake (common, harmless snake)
Sonoran Gophersnake (common, harmless, BIG snake)
Why Can’t Rattlesnakes Climb Over?
Rattlesnakes can climb a tree, up rough stone, and other sufficiently rough surfaces, but going up smooth surfaces isn’t something they are capable of. If the wall has big problems, like an uneven surface or other ledges, then this is considered part of the rattlesnake fence design. What no rattlesnake can do, however, is climb right up a wall like a slug.
Why is knowing what rattlesnakes can climb important?
The physical capabilities of rattlesnakes, and snakes in general, are widely misunderstood. It’s no mystery, too, as to why. We’re raised to believe they’re slimy, supernaturally evil creatures. But, a little knowledge shows this is not the case. And, sometimes, those misconceptions can actually be dangerous.
When can not understanding rattlesnake physiology be dangerous? When it prevents people from taking basic actions to protect their properties. An example of this that we discuss every day: people who choose not to have rattlesnake fencing installed or take other preventative measures because a neighbor or random Facebook person told them that rattlesnakes can just climb over the block wall, so it’s useless. Anyone with a little knowledge of snakes knows this is not the case, but we know that the misconceptions about them are typically louder than the facts.
This is not snake trivia, it’s a message of public safety. Rattlesnake encounters and rattlesnake bites are largely preventable issues. It requires letting go of cultural misconceptions, however, which ironically perpetuate needless danger.
Temperatures are finally coming down and the air in the morning has just a little bit of cool. And, being from Arizona, we’re all pretty excited about that. Not just people but wildlife as well, including rattlesnakes. We are about to enter one of the periods with the most random rattlesnake encounters.
Here’s a summary of what rattlesnakes will be doing this fall, why they do it, and how you can best avoid an unexpected encounter. Note: This applies to Arizona south of the rim. In other locations, timing and behavior will differ.
“Why are rattlesnakes more active in the fall? I thought they loved heat.”
While temperatures were lethally hot in this record-breaking year, rattlesnakes were doing about the same thing we were: hiding. They spend a lot of time in one location, tucked away and only coming out at night to move short distances. The locations the snakes choose to hide away are very specific, which means that rattlesnake encounters are more predictable in some areas.
But now that nights are cool and daytime reasonable, they are out and about with a lot to do before winter sets in. Rattlesnakes need to find prey and water and start their often-long journey to the dens where they will spend the winter. They also may mate during this period, adding even more activity.
This all means that rattlesnakes are on the move in less predictable locations, regardless of the presence of attracting factors. Random encounters with rattlesnakes of all age classes are highest during the fall.
Baby rattlesnakes can be just about anywhere in the fall.
In addition to the adult rattlesnakes, who may have just given birth and need to move and eat, there are a huge number of baby rattlesnakes trying to score their first meal. These newborns have to accomplish a lot in their first couple of months. They must find prey, succeed in hunting, and establish the beginning of their home range.
While this may be informed by scent and interaction with other rattlesnakes, these little ones are on their own. As a result, they often show up in unexpected places. Being under a foot long, they can be easily missed.
During this time, many of them are eaten by predators, fail to find food in time, pick bad locations for hibernation, are killed by cars or the sun, and countless other threats. Many will not survive to the next year, meaning that right now is the highest number of rattlesnakes out there in any given year.
Situations like this, with a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake hiding under a door, are often temporary, random events during the fall.
When are rattlesnakes most active during the fall?
During these cooler, transition times, rattlesnakes become crepuscular, becoming most active in the twilight transitions in the morning and at night. They often bask and hunt in the morning, hide away during much of the day, then leave again as the sun sets to travel longer distances.
Throughout September and early October, the first hour after sunset will see a surge in rattlesnake movement. It slows overnight, but rattlesnakes can be active even as temperatures dip into the 50s. Then again in the morning, rattlesnakes will be out in relatively random locations, typically near temporary hiding spots.
In late October through about the second week of November, rattlesnake activity changes a little bit, with less morning movement. Starting in the late afternoon, around 3 pm, they make large straight-line movements towards den locations. This will carry through and peak in the first hour after sunset, then largely stop.
By the third week of November, most rattlesnakes are where they intend to be for the next few months. So while encounters will still happen, their nature and cause are very different.
Rattlesnakes resting at a den site. During the fall, rattlesnakes are making large movements towards these locations, sometimes on a path through the backyard.
What can pet owners do about rattlesnakes during the fall?
The situation of dogs with rattlesnakes is very different than it is with people. Rattlesnake bites to dogs are typically on the muzzle and face, meaning it is a secondary encounter. Rattlesnakes don’t attack dogs; dogs go after snakes, and the snakes defend themselves. The difference is intention, and this means that much can be done.
For any dog owner living where rattlesnakes are, here are some essential actions:
Get your dog rattlesnake avoidance trained. We recommend our friends at Rattlesnake Ready in Cave Creek.
Walk the yard before letting the dogs out in the morning and at night. Just a quick perimeter check can reduce the majority of snake bites.
Never leave dogs unattended in the backyard at dusk or in the first hour after. This is when rattlesnakes are most active, and the majority of bites will occur.
Contact 24-hour emergency vets in the area ahead of time, and have a plan. Be sure to ask if they treat with antivenom. If they say no, find a different one. Doing this work in advance can save time in the event of a bite, which can greatly affect outcomes.
“What can be done to protect my family from rattlesnakes in the fall?”
Unlike dogs, people can learn and change their behavior with new information. It’s unlikely that you’d intentionally stick your nose on a rattlesnake, so that leaves accidental bites as the situation to avoid.
Here are a few things you can do on a single Saturday that would reduce the chances of you or a loved one taking a rattlesnake bite:
Keep flashlights near all doors, and have a rule that shoes and lights are to be used at all times without exception.
Clean up any debris in the yard, remove hiding spots, reduce clutter, and do any maintenance necessary to make the yard less snake-friendly.
Consider having a professional visit to inspect the property, make recommendations, and evaluate if the property may be a candidate for rattlesnake fencing.
Continue becoming knowledgeable about snakes in the area via passive means. We recommend joining a snake identification Facebook group to get a slow flow of information. Over time, this can help immensely with how you feel about the situation.
Keep this number somewhere handy: 480-237-9975 (Phoenix area) or 520-308-6211 (Tucson area).
Learn about the snakes in your area:
For a full list and more details of rattlesnake activity during the fall and steps you can take to be safe, take a look at this article:
This post isn’t exciting, but it is necessary. We are so happy that the tides seem to be changing on the topic of rattlesnakes. The old ways of killing them are being replaced with smarter practices. Short-distance relocation and prevention, like snake fence installation and habitat reduction, are becoming the norm. Not only are these practices better for the environment, but they are more effective in avoiding encounters than the old ways.
But, that comes with it’s own troubles. More people than ever are offering their services to the public to relocate snakes and install snake fencing … but are they doing it right? Is the service even legal? More often than not, unfortunately, multiple laws are often broken by well-meaning individuals. It’s wonderful that this goodwill exists out there, but now comes the more complicated second half of the task: making sure that providers are acting responsibly. As a homeowner, the laws of snake relocation and prevention are important to understand. So get a coffee and get ready, because this will not be exciting.
Snake Relocation in Arizona REQUIRES a Wildlife Services License
Snake Relocation services offered to the community requires a Wildlife Services License from the Arizona Game and Fish Department! Private certifications and training do not allow legal offering of these services to the community, and should not be confused with legal permits to perform these tasks. Removal and relocation of a rattlesnake is a complex matter, which is not as simple as simply putting a snake in a bucket and taking it to another location – that’s where the real work begins.
EVERY snake relocation person needs their own license
Any entity or business offering snake removal services must have EVERY member of the team be granted individual Wildlife Services Licenses. If one member of the team has a license but others are performing relocation services without it, this is against the law. If you live in a community where the security guards offer snake removal services, it is most likely against the law.
Snake Fence Installation often requires licensing from the state
Snake Fence installation requires a contractor’s license in most situations. AZROC licensing and insurance protect your property. If the total cost, including labor and materials of your project, is above $1,000, make sure the company is licensed, bonded, and insured with AZROC. You can check here: (https://roc.az.gov/search).
For your protection as a homeowner, and many other reasons: work with licensed contractors. It might seem great to save a few bucks up front, but when the installer ghosts you or messes up an expensive gate, you’ll be left without recourse.
Insurance! Don’t let someone on your property to catch a venomous snake who can hold you liable.
Rattlesnake bites are expensive! So are your walls and gates. The guy down the street who wants to help with a snake seems great, but what happens if his internet Steve Irwin act doesn’t work out? A rattlesnake bite is expensive, and you don’t want to learn this the hard way by being held liable.
What kind of insurance should be carried by ANY individual visiting a property to capture a venomous snake?
General Liability and Workers Compensation at minimum. As a property owner, I’d be cautious about inviting anyone to my place to catch a venomous snake that could hold me liable if they are bitten in the process.
Love it or hate it, the HOA has its say in your snake fence.
HOAs and private communities usually have very specific rules about snake fencing. Some of these rules can be complicated to work through or have requirements that would make any snake fence installation ineffective. If you have an HOA, it’s advisable that you inquire about these rules BEFORE getting any contractor involved. Unfortunately, we are often in the position of having to remove/fix snake fencing installed by landscapers and companies who circumvent these rules, and the homeowners end up with a mess.
Any changes to drainage can cause big problems if not properly assessed. In some parts of the county, drainage and flood aversion may be subject to special consideration. Check in advance!
Wait, is this just a way to get people to call you instead?
It might seem like that, but our real interest lies elsewhere: making sure that the snakes survive and that homeowners are protected … not only from rattlesnakes but the shady business practices that often feed on fear. There are many businesses that offer these services ethically and legally to choose from, so this article in no way singles out Rattlesnake Solutions as the only choice. Think of it this way: making sure to go through the proper legal channels, licensing requirements, and insurance coverage ensures that the business you hire has been scrutinized by regulatory entities and is a verified professional service. Kind of like “you must be this tall to ride this ride”, someone you call to catch a venomous snake in your garage should be able to meet certain requirements to be considered a viable service easily.
This is not as fun as our usual posts, but as a homeowner, I’d want to know these things about any contractor coming to work at my place. Snake-related services are kind of niche, so many aren’t aware of them. But now you are. Just remember, the same as anything else: if a price seems too good to be true, it’s likely some shortcuts are being taken.
It’s that time of year when every rattlesnake sighting prompts the question: when will rattlesnakes disappear for the winter? It’s a topic that causes some confusion with many people who believe that reptiles only want heat, and as soon as it starts to cool, they disappear entirely. But like many things with animals, the reality of the situation is much more complicated. Fortunately, after more than a decade of working with homeowners on conflict situations, during this time of year, we have the data to answer this question quite accurately. This observational assessment is based on the frequency, timing, and nature of the more than 15,000 snake relocation calls we have run since 2009.
Late October is peak time for rattlesnake encounters. This is completely normal. While there is no calendar for wild animals, there are some strong trends that are more or less true every year. Even though it’s still hot outside right now, we see no reason to believe this year will be any different. Here’s the timeline:
Throughout October, rattlesnakes are moving. By the third week of October, much of this activity takes place in a short window of time immediately after dark. This may only be an hour, where everything appears to move at once. Encounters with the snakes, may also happen in the early morning, as people see them resting in the temporary location they have selected. This behavior will reach a peak in the last days of October, through the first week of November. By the second week of November, even this behavior begins to wane. By the end of the second week of November, most rattlesnakes are where they intend to be for the winter and the encounter is driven by their traveling and mating. Behavior will have more or less ended. By Thanksgiving, any rattlesnake relocation requests we receive are snakes that are in garage, or other on property hibernaculum, indicating ingress has completed.
A screenshot from our Rattlesnake Activity Forecast tool, driven by real-time data from snake relocation hotline activity. You can watch it at the Rattlesnake Solutions website.
Late October rattlesnake encounters are perfectly normal
As days, go, shorter, and temperatures drop, usually, rattlesnake activity is going to change in a number of ways. First, although some may hunt and continue to do so later into the year, most are in transit. They are moving towards areas that they have selected to spend the winter. Some rattlesnakes like the young of the year or those who have been displaced by construction or other issues, may be in a wandering pattern, looking for a suitable spot. Others, maybe successful adult rattlesnakes that know exactly where to go, and they are moving in a straight line to get there.
Along the way, there may be conflict with humans. This could be, as the snake is crawling through a backyard and, spotted by the dog, forgets held up in a maze of block, walls and stucco. And increasingly, the overwinter destination itself may be on the property. This could be in a garage, under a shed, in the foundation of a home, under slabs of concrete, under air conditioning, or pool, equipment, and any number of scenarios.
The nature of these encounters can be different, because unlike those in the spring, where temperatures and day links were similar, the objectives of the animals may be different. Setting up ambush positions to hunt is no longer a priority, and rattlesnakes may be more likely to rattle out a person or a pet that discovers them as they are in transit. While in the spring time, most rattlesnake encounters at homes may be a snake soundly coiled in a corner, in this time of year it’s usually a snake on the crawl or moving across the surface. With winter, approaching, and the opportunity to hunt in the cool weather, drawing to a close, rattlesnakes are in conservation mode. Essentially, they have the food, energy and water that they have, and it’s time to get to a place for the winter to hang onto it. Remaining above ground, even in otherwise favorable conditions, has no benefit, and may only serve two accelerate the desiccation that may occur in an Arizona dry winter. Rattlesnakes in the low desert may even select overwintering sites that are cooler, to keep a lower, metabolism and slow, the loss of resources.
The fall is also mating, season, again. Wow, much of this behavior happens in advance of moving towards dens, it still occurs up until the end. This can mean that, in addition to traveling rattlesnakes, a homeowner can see pairs in courtship or mating. However, while this behavior is common, it does not seem to drive encounters the same way that it does in the spring time. In March for example if we find an adult female Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, we can often find males in the area searching for her. This is such a strong driver of encounters that in peak spring time, mating season, this might be something that we even expect. In the fall, however, this does not seem to be the case and courtship and meeting may be an aspect of opportunity as snakes continue to come together anyway to group social situations.
Rattlesnakes can still be encountered in the winter
Once snakes are in their dens, it does not mean that homeowners don’t need to think about them during the winter. Please note that I did not use the word “fear” there, as it isn’t necessary or helpful when all that must be done is to remain rational and, take minor precautions. This means that if you live in an area where rattlesnakes can occur, just do as you always would, and follow the basic rattlesnake safety measures you do the rest of the year. Don’t reach where you can’t see, always watch where you walk even on cold days and nights, use flashlights and wear shoes, etc. Just because rattlesnake encounters are much less frequent does not mean they don’t occur, in fact, they often do, so just stay sharp.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes using a packrat nest built into a rock pile as a winter den. These situations are often emulated on properties, and rattlesnakes move right in.
Keep rattlesnakes from using your property as a den:
Here are some things that you can do as a homeowner, often relatively easily, to reduce the chances of your property, becoming a rattlesnake den. If this is a concern, devote hey Saturday, and in most cases, you can be done in that time one.
Identify and remove any deep hiding opportunities. This might mean pavers stored along the side, yard, those cinderblocks you meant to do something with, but the project has stalled, the old pool toy box full of deflated floaties, etc. Any items that are stored, long-term and not disturbed can create thermal protection that rattlesnakes and other animals can use
Move the firewood stack to a different location. In fact, do this once a year. It doesn’t need to be far; you can just move it right next to the original location if you choose, but just make sure that it is not a permanent location. Firewood piles are a favorite for rodents and the holes that they dig can be used by rattlesnakes. We often are called to remove rattlesnakes from firewood piles during the winter, and simply moving them, seems to prevent that quite well.
Find and repair any openings into the foundation of structures. These do not need to be large openings, they can even be what look like in minor cracks, going up into the flashing, or a wall joint that has eroded or settled. This can also include sheds or other secondary structures, built on concrete pads that have rodent tunnels going under them or other openings. The quick fix is expanding foam, easily obtainable at any hardware store, while the long-term fix can be arranged.
Learn what a packrat (wood rat) nest looks like and destroy the ones you find on your property. Paquerette nests are favorite homes for rattlesnakes at any time of year, including the winter. Rattlesnakes live alongside these rodents in these often deep and well insulated spaces. To remove a packrat nest permanently, traps, and other rodent control won’t do the trick. Destroy the nest itself. You can do this by flooding it entirely with a garden hose several times, then using garden tools to remove and spread the surface debris and collapse all entrances. Repeat until it is no longer being repaired by the rodent. This single step may be the most important one in this list.
Repair any gaps in garage door seals or call somebody to make sure that gets done. If you see debris and dirt in the corners alongside the edges of garage doors, that means that they are not sealed and animals, including rattlesnakes can get in. You may also want to use this time to get to that long, awaited garage, clean out, and re-organization you wanted to do forever. Cluttered garage are great places for a rattlesnake to spend the winter undisturbed in safety and relative warmth, and they often do. Because it’s a long corners and walls, and reduce the number of hiding spots as much as possible.
Check the areas around seldom visited parts of the yard, like the pool pump, equipment, and air conditioning units. These are often mounted on concrete pads which rodents do you under to create spaces. These are also out-of-the-way locations that people don’t visit very much and as a result, the place where things like bricks and discarded pool toys end up being discarded. Clean up any of these items and fill or collapse any rodent holes going underneath.
If your yard has large and extensive tracts of low-cover landscaping, such as lantana, rosemary, and natal plum, consider upgrading to less rattlesnake-friendly plants. These popular landscape vegetation choices, often create inches of rotting organic material underneath while also retaining moisture We have removed hundreds of rattlesnakes from the situation at homes over the years.
If your property uses riprap, or other piled rock, as decorative or erosion control material, be cautious. The best situation in either case is that the rock is situated to be no more than one or two rock layers deep. This means that each rock in the layer is exposed to the sun and touching the ground. This is not necessarily a useful feature to be a rattlesnake if done like this. If the rock is several layers, deep, however, creating spaces and thermal opportunities within, rattlesnakes, and other animals will, of course find this useful, and perhaps no time more so than in the winter. If this rock area is made of piles of cantaloupe-to-watermelon sized boulders, and several feet thick, you can probably count on rattlesnakes using it. Of course, this rock may be in place for functional needs like erosion control, but if you have an abundance of rattlesnake visits throughout the spring, it may be worthwhile to consider other options
Be especially cautious, when pulling out items from storage that have been there for a long time without being disturbed. Specifically, holiday decorations. It is likely that your plastic Christmas tree and box of tangled lights have been sitting in the same corner of the storage shed without being looked at since you put them there last January, that means by the time you reach for them again in December, they have served only as a potential hiding spot for animals that doesn’t want to be disturbed. This is the same for Halloween, Thanksgiving, New Year, or whatever other holiday or overwinter things you might only look at once a year.
If there has been a dry period for more than two months, and rain comes, rattlesnakes will come out of the den to drink it. This will happen in any temperatures above freezing. That means that if it is the middle of December, and it’s midnight and 35° outside and it starts raining, rattlesnakes will be out. They won’t go far, maybe a few feet to a nearby bush for a little while, but this phenomenon is very reliable. Keep this in mind when going out to get firewood or other activities in such an event.
Stacks of firewood are often used by snakes and other animals as overwinter homes. This can be largely avoided by simply moving the location of the stack each year.A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake using a stack of roofing tiles as a winter den.
Each day in July, 2023 has been above 110˚F with no end in sight. What do the rattlesnakes do?
A common misconception is that reptiles love the sun – the hotter, the better, right? Well, not quite. Like all reptiles, rattlesnakes are ectotherms and get their heat from the environment. But that doesn’t mean they don’t have limits. Just like you in the office when whats-his-name down the row keeps fiddling with the thermostat, rattlesnakes prefer specific temperatures. And more importantly, they can quickly die when they get too hot.
How hot is too hot for a rattlesnake? It depends. Generally, if the body temperature gets above 110˚ for even a little while, a rattlesnake will not survive. With ground temperatures hot enough to cook an egg, a rattlesnake caught out in the open for even a minute mid-day in Arizona will not survive. Aside from overheating, prolonged heat can kill off rattlesnakes by desiccation, literally drying out in the Arizona oven while the monsoon takes its sweet time getting here.
Where do rattlesnakes go when so hot?
Rattlesnakes hide away during the hottest and driest time of year in carefully selected retreats in a behavioral state known as aestivation. Think of it as hibernation to escape the heat instead of cold. Each year, rattlesnakes may use the same aestivation den, alongside other rattlesnakes of multiple species. And just like hibernation, these aestivation dens serve as social hubs, as well as survival escapes.
In the wild, these aestivation dens may be a cave in a drainage wall, a deep crevice in a rocky outcrop, packrat nests, or any number of other deep, thermally protected areas. But near developed areas, an even greater resource exists: backyards.
Openings to the foundation, cracks in the concrete leading under the deck, the shaded base pad under pool pump equipment, and more can be ideal aestivation dens for groups of rattlesnakes. Even better, almost all backyards provide easy sources of water. Combine all of this with dense, well-watered lantana or rosemary, and the perfect rattlesnake summer sanctuary is made.
If you find a rattlesnake in the yard right now, it’s possible it has been there awhile.
These Speckled Rattlesnakes are resting a short distance from their aestivation den and will retreat once the sun heats the area. This is a similar situation to aestivation dens found at homes, where homeowners may encounter them on the patio a short distance from the actual den.
“But it’s a dry heat”
Don’t be fooled by this favorite statement of visitors from wetter climates. We’re not talking about feeling sweaty and uncomfortable while you eat BBQ – dry heat kills.
Moisture loss is a significant danger to rattlesnakes when it’s so hot and dry outside. Simply breathing is dangerous, as every molecule of water lost from the body won’t be replaced until it falls from the sky. Any source of sustained water can and will attract rattlesnakes and other wildlife. If there is deep cover nearby to wait out the day until the next opportunity to drink, it makes an irresistible resource.
A group of rattlesnakes I found living under a leaky AC unit behind our home.
For homeowners, now is the time to review the property. Something as simple as a dripping hose or irrigation line that’s a bit too generous may be an oasis bringing venomous snakes to the yard. Eliminate any sources of water possible. View the property as critical habitat, and make careful decisions. If a rattlesnake is spotted few times a year near that over-watered natal plum, it’s time for some hard decisions about that plant.
What happens to rattlesnakes that are relocated when it’s so hot?
This statement doesn’t exactly make us popular, but it’s the truth. Do not call the fire department or the local security guard to relocate snakes, especially when it’s this hot. Even if the fact the snake will likely die isn’t reason enough, a potentially more dangerous situation can be the result. It doesn’t matter who: call a professional with deep snake knowledge. Here is why:
Homeowners are finding rattlesnakes in entryways or in a corner along the back patio and calling for relocation. The trick is, however, that these situations are usually not new. If a rattlesnake is in a yard right now, there are two scenarios that are most likely:
The rattlesnake has been aestivating on the property or immediately adjacent and is being discovered by chance after weeks of undetected behavior.
The rattlesnake was displaced by construction. Or, with increased frequency, botched relocation by the fire department or under-experienced relocator.
Rattlesnakes are often found in small groups aestivating in backyards. When we are called to catch one, we can usually locate the aestivation den, where we look to see if there are more. The homeowner is then educated on what is happening, and how the den can be addressed to prevent future, similar encounters. In these instances, the snake itself is not the issue, but a symptom of a provided resource. Usually, these can be fixed relatively easily.
Rattlesnake encounters in the summer that are due to construction of unexperienced relocation are a more complicated matter, unfortunately. While it is a great thing that there is an increased will out there to not kill rattlesnakes and have them relocated instead, the details matter greatly. If a rattlesnake is captured by the fire department and moved to a nearby bush or released to open ground, one of two things happen: the snake dies, or it panics and manages to escape to the nearest cover. This can be shade at the neighbors’ house, back to the original location, or any number of potentially dangerous situations. Rattlesnakes that are able to behave naturally can often coexist for a lifetime without conflict with humans by careful evasion, but all bets are off when they are forced into a cover-or-die situation.
We are currently seeing a lot of activity on our snake removal hotline. Rattlesnakes and other wildlife are having a tough time in this heat, forcing them to take desperate measures to survive. This increase of conflict is something that can be resolved by working with the natural behavior of the snake. This means that snakes that are captured for relocation must be released directly into a suitable replacement aestivation den. This also means that the individual relocating the snake needs to be able to identify aestivation microhabitat.
This Western Diamondback Rattlesnake was found by a snake relocator while searching for a suitable aestivation den to relocate a rattlesnake found at a home. This snake is a clue that the right release site is nearby. This careful release site selection is essential during the summer.
How to keep rattlesnakes out of the yard during the summer
The best way to keep snakes out of the yard during the hot, dry summer months is to reduce critical resources as much as possible. When it is this hot, rattlesnakes aren’t traveling around like they would be during the spring and fall, so the situations where they are found. This means rattlesnake encounters at homes are much more predictable and, therefore, avoidable.
Here are some things that can be done in a single weekend that can significantly reduce the chances of a summer rattlesnake den in the yard:
Do a sweep of the property for unnecessary water sources. This means fixing the leaky hose, cleaning up the outdoor dog bowl area, and checking on landscaping irrigation and drip lines to make sure they’re in good shape.
Watch areas of AC condenser run-off. You may be able to fix these situations by placing a metal can under them to prevent the ground from getting wet, and allow faster evaporation.
It’s time to get rid of those overgrown, over-watered lantana and rosemary bushes. They come standard with every home in Arizona, but consider native plants that require less water and are less likely to attract rattlesnakes and their prey.
Look into snake fencing as an option to physically prevent entry.
Find and fill any cracks and openings to the foundation of the home and other buildings. Any access to crawl spaces, flashing, under pavement and the driveway, or the foundation can become rattlesnake dens in the summer.
Carefully check seldom-visited sections of the yard: specifically pool pump areas and air conditioning units. These spots are usually hidden away and provide easy, private retreats for rattlesnakes and other animals.
Flood and destroy rodent burrows as they are found.
By this time, when rattlesnakes have already been at their summer retreats for several weeks, it’s more productive to prepare for what comes next: the monsoon activity, where encounters will be at the highest rate of the year.
What happens to rattlesnakes when the monsoon comes?
Once the monsoon rain comes, several events are kicked off.
First, the abundant ambient moisture and access to water relieve some of the survival pressure. Rattlesnakes will no longer be forced to hide away, meaning they can resume moving, hunting, and other activities. Rattlesnakes encountered in backyards will be less likely to be long-term residents. Aestivation dens are largely abandoned for the year for many species.
Often this is when rattlesnakes shed their skins, too. The moisture can start the shedding process, during which many rattlesnakes remain hidden away for a period of time, regardless of the nicer conditions outside. However, once they shed, they’re off to hunt and more.
Next, it’s time for babies! The moisture kicks off the birthing season. Rattlesnakes either birth in place, or move to special places where babies will be born, called rookeries. Depending on the species, the timing and location of this event varies. For Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes, which make up the bulk of rattlesnake encounters with homeowners, this can be about anywhere with adequate cover.
Questions and Answers about Summer Rattlesnake Activity:
Can I use a garden hose to move a rattlesnake away while it’s this hot?
You can, but it is likely a temporary solution. Rattlesnakes found in the yard right now are likely aestivating nearby, and will remain in the area until they can leave after the monsoon rain brings relief. Also, make sure the water isn’t too hot by spraying it to the side for a few seconds.
Are rattlesnakes more likely to be found indoors during this time?
Yes, but it’s still a very remote possibility. Even though indoors is obviously cooler, very few rattlesnake removal calls are inside homes during this time of year. The majority of rattlesnake in-home calls we respond to are due to doors being left open in the Spring and Fall, which is not an issue when it is above 110˚F outside.
Do rattlesnakes climb trees and shrubs to get away from the hot ground?
Rattlesnakes are often found up off the ground in bushes outside of their aestivation dens when it is this hot outside. A bit of airflow can help a snake keep cool, and they seem to take advantage of it.
How often do we find rattlesnakes that have died from the heat?
In our research of rattlesnakes living in urban islands, it is not uncommon to find rattlesnakes that have died during the hot and dry foresummer. This can be exacerbated by disturbance, such as stress from visitation or poorly performed relocation. An event as simple as a short delay from overnight location back to the den can mean death.
Am I attracting rattlesnakes if I provide water for generally preferable wildlife, such as rabbits and birds?
If this is being done in an area where rattlesnakes can occur: absolutely. Not only by providing water, but attracting prey animals as well. If there’s also an area the rattlesnakes can escape to during the day, it’s an ideal rattlesnake situation.
Where do wild rattlesnakes find water during the heat?
For the most part, they don’t. They are forced into a state of preservation, waiting for the monsoon rain to come. Others may find water at springs, rivers and streams, cattle tanks, and other sources of year-round water. But for many rattlesnakes, this simply isn’t an option.
Can excessive heat cause negatively affect the reproductive success of rattlesnakes?
Yes. Conditions of prolonged heat and drought are difficult to survive for any age of rattlesnake, with newborns being especially susceptible. In the summer of 2020, during a long period without rain and excessive heat, we observed that speckled rattlesnakes more often gave birth at aestivation dens rather than move to typical locations. This was mirrored in birthing events of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes and others, giving birth in less-than-ideal situations. While these effects aren’t well documented, our observations and anecdotal experience with birthing in urban situations show, essentially: panic.
What do rattlesnakes do on hot ground or pavement when it’s this hot outside?
They die. This is why it is avoided at all costs, and it’s lethal to them when the fire department dumps them into a bush rather than relocate to a suitable area.
Are there any repellents that can be used to keep rattlesnakes from spending the summer in my cooler, wetter backyard?
Unfortunately there are no snake repellents on the market that will keep snakes of any species away, despite claims. The effective alternatives are a combination of habitat and resource reduction and, where applicable, snake fence installation.
Do rattlesnakes mate when it’s this hot?
Rattlesnakes can court and mate at any time of year, but typically the seasons for doing so are in the spring and fall, depending on species.
Is it ok to leave water our for rattlesnakes and other wildlife?
Yes it is! Just be sure that it is clean and does not become a disease vector. Also understand that doing so will indiscriminately invite wildlife to the area, and it’s not possible to pick and choose. Leaving water out for birds and bunnies is the same as doing so for rattlesnakes.
Are there specific scents or chemicals that can be applied to deter rattlesnakes?How about plants?
There are currently no products, operating either by scent or otherwise, that will effectively deter rattlesnakes and would be legally and ethically feasible.
The rumors about plants such as rosemary, lemongrass, mint, and other “snake-repellent” plants are just local mythology. Ironically, some of these, such as rosemary, provide deep ground cover that can actually attract rattlesnakes.
Does the application of lava rock, gravel or other small rocks deter rattlesnakes?
While these materials do not directly deter rattlesnakes, they may provide some protection in some areas simply by being hot ground cover. However, using these materials specifically for rattlesnake deterrent purposes would not be advisable. Remember that rattlesnakes live in very hot, rough environments. Using rocks, even sharp rocks like lava rock, would not have an effect.
How often do rattlesnakes need to drink?
If given an opportunity, they can drink every day. However, they are very efficient and many ways of preserving moisture through their behavior and physiology, and can go for several months without a drink if they must.
What can I do to help the rattlesnakes without causing unintended danger (to either them or me)?
This may seem like a non-answer, but simply having the attitude that rattlesnakes should be kept alive and are important wildlife is an important node contributing to changing culture. Perhaps the best thing someone can do, if they are aware of the potential risks associated and are able and willing to communicate as needed to visitors and others, is to simply leave the rattlesnakes in place.
At my own home, for example, we have discovered an aestivation den of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes hiding out under the AC unit behind the house. It’s not in an area with immediate concern, but we know it’s there and make sure we behave appropriately. Rather than relocate these, we will allow them to stay there for the remainder of the aestivation period, then will likely repair the leaky AC drip that has caused the situation. We know there are several nearby and suitable aestivation sites in the immediate area, so loss of this one will not have negative consequences for these snakes.
It’s really no surprise. After some extended Winter weather here in Arizona, things are starting to look like Spring. Wildflower photos are showing up all over social media feeds … and, of course, rattlesnakes.
Nope, they are not coming out early. If anything this year, they’re a little late. They’re not more aggressive, cranky, or other various local hyperbole. And, most of all: no, you are not in danger.
Before we get into the how’s and why’s, we’ll get right to the action items. Odds are at least some of you will be finding this while there’s literally a rattlesnake right in front of you, so we’ll get this out of the way.
If you need to have a rattlesnake removed from a property: Call 480-237-9975 in Phoenix or 520-308-6211 in Tucson
If you have a snake that you need to have identified: Text a photograph to 480-694-3020
What is Rattlesnake Season and when does it start?
While it is true that rattlesnakes can be encountered at any time of year in certain conditions, yearly activity spikes follow certain patterns. We define ‘rattlesnake season’ as the period where rattlesnake encounters with humans jump to peak activity, then die down again just as quickly in the Fall. In southern Arizona, this means, roughly mid-March through early November. This year, with the extra rain and cloud cover, we’re a little behind schedule … but all that is about to change, starting now.
A common situation for Arizona residents – a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake on the front patio.
The trigger we look for each year, according to our call volume and experience, is essentially this: when overnight temperatures stabilize in the 50s with daytime temperatures in the low 70s for a period of 3 or more days: it’s on. Rattlesnakes feel comfortable untethering from the protective dens where they’ve stayed near for the last several months.
You can watch this happen in real-time by watching the number of calls coming into our 24 hour snake removal hotline. We have created a tool to estimate current daily activity by the amount and velocity of snake removal requests. Watch how this changes over the next two weeks!
Activity at the time of this writing is still low … but that is about to change.
Why are there so many rattlesnake encounters in the Spring?
For a rattlesnake coming out of hibernation, there is a lot to do. After a long period without eating, rarely drinking, and conserving energy, rattlesnakes are looking to eat and drink as much as they can before things get too hot. This means they’ll be on the move to hunting areas, spending a lot of time on the move over the surface tracking prey and traveling.
This is also one of the mating periods for rattlesnakes. Along with the hunting activities, there are a lot of social tasks to do. Males are on the crawl looking for females to court and mate with … and on the lookout for rival males. Rattlesnakes are very social animals, and these periods of reasonable weather are when many of the activities that help define hierarchy will take place in a short period of time.
But an encounter with a rattlesnake takes two: the snake of course, and the person or pet who encounters it! These same mild conditions are when Arizona residents take to the trails by the thousands to look at flowers and take in all the Sonoran Desert has to offer before temperatures hit triple digits. This is also the time to get to those landscaping and gardening projects, clean out the garage, and all fun stuff that comes with t-shirt weather.
All of this adds up to this: both rattlesnakes and humans are suddenly at peak levels of outdoor activity at the same time. We will, of course, cross paths from time to time.
Learning about rattlesnakes can help fear go away and keep you safe.
If you fear rattlesnakes and dread this time of year, there is good news.
Fear of rattlesnakes is real. You feel it, and there’s not a single thing that someone can tell you that will make that go away.
But, if this fear is not something you want, and you’re sick of feeling like this every Spring, there are things you can do about it. This varies from person to person, of course, but consistently: learning more about the things you fear can help. For many, even looking at a photo of a rattlesnake can invoke panic, but it’s a safe place to start.
Here’s a guide to help the snake-phobic among us get on that path to feeling better about it. We have watched many people go from terrified to fascinated, and it’s possible for you to as well.
Does rattlesnake season mean I should stop hiking?
Not at all. For as much as we worry about rattlesnakes, the fact is that the situation is nowhere near as dangerous as seems in our minds. Rattlesnakes want to avoid us every bit as much as we want to avoid them, and to that end, you are allies. Accidental bites, where the incident is not provoked intentionally by the victim, are quite rare even in Arizona. Typically, there are fewer than 300 in any given year, and ZERO deaths.
Follow basic rattlesnake awareness and avoidance guidelines and it is not at all hard to be safe during rattlesnake season. For full details, check out our Arizona Hikers’ Guide to Rattlesnake Safety
Remember:
Rattlesnakes are not aggressive; they will not chase, jump, or come after you to ‘get’ you. If one is rattling, it’s scared of you and wants you to go away. Do it!
Learning about the subject you fear will help make it more reasonable. Do what you can to educate yourself, as you are doing right now, about rattlesnakes and what they do and don’t do.
Keep your hands and feet where you can see them at all times. Your eyes are your best tool to avoid rattlesnakes.
Stay on trails and avoid bushwhacking whenever possible.
Keep dogs on leashes at all times in the outdoors.
Don’t wear headphones or listen to music while hiking. Rattlesnakes have a built-in warning system, but it doesn’t work if you can’t hear it!
Don’t touch, capture, or kill snakes that you see … and keep others from doing the same.
Have a plan. All you need in the event of a bite is to call 911. If that’s not possible, use your satellite messaging device.
What should homeowners know about rattlesnakes?
While hikers and campers might expect to see a rattlesnake out there, most homeowners do not plan on it. Especially for new residents of the state, how to handle the possibility of a rattlesnake showing up on the doorstep may seem daunting.
First, evaluate the actual chances of seeing a rattlesnake in your yard. It’s not just as simple as to assume that houses near the desert have more rattlesnake encounters. Where in the neighborhood a home is can have even more of an effect. For example: homes on the corners and ends of streets can see far more rattlesnakes than those on the interior.
To help describe that and show you where we tend to find more rattlesnakes, take a look at these articles:
Homeowners might also want to take note of which snake species can show up at your place. We know not everyone is into nature and spending a lot of time learning all of the different types of snakes in Arizona is just … too much. So, keep this on your phone:
This is also a great time to think about prevention. If you live in an area where rattlesnakes can be, it is likely that at some point one will show up. Things like habitat reduction, rattlesnake fencing, and proper maintenance make a huge difference in the likelihood of rattlesnake encounters at a home.
When will snake activity decrease again?
Just as we might disappear when temperatures climb into the triple digits, snakes will as well. Or at least, they’ll start to become more nocturnal and less likely to be encountered by most people. This is nowhere near the low level of activity that we have in the Winter, but it’s certainly less than it will be in April.
That should happen around mid-May. Rattlesnakes will be moving to aestivation shelters to wait out the hot and dry, waiting for the monsoon rain. During that time, there are still encounters, but it’s quite different, and we’ll provide further updates when we get there.
In the meantime, keep hiking, enjoy the weather, and get outside! It’s great outside and you want to be in it; you and rattlesnakes have something in common.
Temperatures are dropping, and so is snake activity. Every year, we are asked this question and field hundreds of comments wanting to know when the rattlesnake-phobic can once again breathe a little easier.
Even more common, starting in September, people are surprised that snakes are still active. We get comments like “this late?” and “I thought they were hibernating?!”. The answer is of course a little more complicated, but the answer is easy to find.
When do snakes go away in the winter?
According to hotline activity as an indicator of snake activity, snake activity drops dramatically around the second week of November. While snakes can still be found on the surface here and there, this is effectively the end of “snake season”.
This question can be best answered by looking at the average activity on our relocation hotline. Since this is driven purely by chance encounters by homeowners and businesses, it’s a good indicator of how many snakes the general population could expect to not see snakes out there.
But I heard that snakes are active all year?
Yes they are, but to a much lower extent. You may be told that there is no such thing as “snake season” because rattlesnakes can be found any time of year. While it is certainly true that in the right conditions a snake might make an appearance, it’s not necessarily useful for this discussion.
If a snake is found at your home in the winter, it has likely been there for awhile.
Here’s a better, more detailed article about When snakes “go to sleep” for the winter”:
Now that evening temperatures are in the 50s for most of the major metro areas of Arizona, with cooler temperatures on the way, rattlesnake behavior shifts yet again. Throughout October into early November, rattlesnakes are on the move, eventually settling into their chosen winter den. For many homes, this den can be the garage.
In fact, during the cooler time of year, one of the only things that will make us put down our egg nogs and various pumpkin spice drinks to grab snake tongs and hit the road are rattlesnakes found in a garage. It’s nothing to be overly alarmed about, but any homeowner living in a neighborhood where rattlesnakes can be found should take note and be aware.
This is also when many of our seasonal residents (aka snowbirds) fly back to their winter Arizona homes to wait out the snow in our perfect weather. If this is you, you may want to pay special attention.
Why do rattlesnakes go into garages?
Rattlesnakes go into garages for a simple reason: to them, it’s just a cave. Not just any cave, but one that’s slightly warmer than the surrounding areas due to the proximity to a larger, heated cave (your home). This cave is also loaded with golf clubs, various boxes of holiday decorations, and dozens of boxes mentally labeled “stuff I’ll deal with later”. When there’s easy access, why wouldn’t a snake use it for a winter den?
How do I keep rattlesnakes out of my garage?
Fortunately, this is relatively easy – it just takes some attention at the right time. That time, as you might imagine, is right now.
The biggest single thing you can fix is won’t cost you a thing, because it’s a behavior change. That is: keep the garage closed as much as possible. Yes, the temperatures are perfect right now and it’s the ideal time to pull those Christmas decorations out even though it’s barely October and the HOA will throw a fit: keep it closed unless you are actively coming and going from the garage. During the early evening and just after dark, rattlesnakes are very actively moving, and if you accidentally leave the door open, even just a little, you’re all but inviting them in.
You can also check the seal on the garage door to see if it’s doing the job. What’s the easiest way to tell? Look at inside corners on either side of the garage door. If you see leaves and debris blown in from outside: congratulations, your door seal is bad. Or you can just look at it (this is the rubber bumper that comes in contact with the garage floor). If it’s frayed, rodent-chewed, or missing the edges so that it doesn’t come into perfect contact with the floor, your favorite garage door company should be called to be replace it. The best part? You’ll not only not see a rattlesnake in there this year, but fewer scorpions and other stuff, too.
Last of the big things to do: clean up the garage. I know, it’s been on the list for years, but if the possibility of a rattlesnake in the garage isn’t a motivator, what is? Rattlesnakes want to stay in a den where they can rest without disturbance, meaning that they need places to hide. A garage with no places to hide is not useable, so let’s do that. That doesn’t mean you need to clear it out, just arrange it differently. Replace old cardboard with plastic storage boxes (with lids), stored right on the ground, without space in between. Pull everything away from the wall a bit, and create space wherever possible.
Spaces along walls that are seldom visited are where rattlesnakes like to hide.
Things you can do to keep rattlesnakes out of the garage:
Keep the garage door closed as much as possible, never leaving it open after dark.
Check and replace, if needed, the rubber seal at the base of the garage door.
Re-organize items stored in the garage to eliminate as many hiding places as possible and create space.
Move stored items away from walls 10+ and avoid loosely-placed items, especially in corners.
Have your garage and property inspected by a professional to get insight on specific features that should be addressed, and look for signs of resident rattlesnakes.
Avoid using products like poisons, glue traps, and snake-repellents (these don’t work and give false peace of mind – you want to remain aware)
Debris in the corners means your garage door isn’t sealed, and rattlesnakes (and other animals) have easy access.
How can I tell if a rattlesnake is already in the garage?
Here’s an easy trick we’ve learned over the years to tell if a rattlesnake is using the garage, even if it’s hidden somewhere in the back, with relative accuracy. Check the corners! Rattlesnakes don’t just crawl into the back of the garage and stay put – there is actually quite a bit of lateral movement. This staging behavior often puts rattlesnakes in the corners nearest to the garage door. Even if temporarily, this can leave distinctive tracks that can indicate whether or not a rattlesnake may be elsewhere in the garage.
In every garage, these corners have dust, leaves, and various stuff. This dust is very useful – a rattlesnake will leave a circular print in the corner, pushing larger debris to the edge. If you see this pattern, it could mean that a rattlesnake has either visited the garage recently or is still in there. If you see it between November and February, the odds of a rattlesnake visitor are higher.
Look for this circular pattern in dust and debris in garage corners to see if a rattlesnake may be using the area.Any leaves, dust, or debris in the corners of the garage can reveal their presence, even long after they’ve gone.
How long are rattlesnakes in garages?
Though we can find rattlesnakes in garages all year, typically this period of cool weather that the rest of the world calls “winter” is when it happens. You can expect that rattlesnakes will be where they intend to spend the winter by about the second week of November. Rattlesnakes will start to explore and make small movements outside by late February, through early March. By April 1, it’s most likely that any rattlesnakes hiding in the garage over the winter have gone out to do all the stuff they do in the spring.
What about the rest of the yard? How do I keep rattlesnakes away?
Avoid using wire ties or plastic zip ties wherever possible. Instead opt for a more permanent and removable solution, like self-tapping screws.
Why should you avoid using zip ties or wire on your iron fence? Simply: it’s less effective and can damage the fence. The reason we know the zip tie method has issues is why we’re there to begin with: more often than not, it’s because there was a rattlesnake in the yard. Obviously, something isn’t working as it should.
Some installers or DIY guides may suggest using zip ties or wire. They may say that these are cheaper options and easier to take on and off. But in reality, this isn’t the case. Plastic degrades quickly in the Arizona sun, and wire ties can rust through in a few years, leaving large gaps in fencing that can easily allow a rattlesnake entry into your yard.
When is it justifiable to use wire ties?
There are some circumstances where this is simply the only option. Fence that can’t take a screw, like chain link or rebar, need to be wire-tied or welded. Some HOAs also require wire ties – if this is a regulation in your community, send them the video below and see if you can get that one changed.
Here’s a short video showing some examples and further explanation.
Starting in early March, rattlesnakes will again be a part of our lives in Arizona! While we’re excited, you may not be as much 🙂 Even when a rattlesnake fence is installed perfectly, things happen; rodents dig, branches fall, gates shift: we’ll make sure you’re good for Spring.
To make sure your yard is as good as it gets before things start getting all rattlesnakey out there, we’re offering a check-up and maintenance service to our Rattlesnake Fence customers through the end of February.
Inspection of rattlesnake fence, and up to 1 hour of repair and maintenance (materials included!)*
Full property inspection, checking landscaping, snake-hiding spots, to look for possible snake dens and advise on potential trouble areas
Removal and relocation of any snakes found, both in and outside of the protected areas
Spot-check garage, storage shed, etc (checking corners and walls for snake tracks and signs of activity)
Booking through the end of February for $200. (You don’t need to be there, but you’ll get more out of it if you are).
If you’re NOT a rattlesnake fence customer, we’ll add an 1-hour credit of labor and materials to an estimate for a new rattlesnake fence, good for anytime in 2021.
* Repairs not related to workmanship or materials requiring more than 1 hour of labor/materials may be performed at additional cost, with your approval
