As you’re probably aware, there are many different kind of rattlesnakes that have their own characteristics. One thing that is universal to all of them is that their bites are venomous and need immediate medical attention. So let’s cover the safety considerations when entering a participating landowner’s property.
Step 1
Establish contact with the landowner. On the participation component of this website is some limited information, but all participating landowners must have a phone number or other near to real time communications capability that you can use to contact them before entering the property. This is as much for your safety as it is for our beloved rattlesnakes. You must establish communications with the landowner to get permission and information, otherwise you accept all personal liability for anything that may happen as a result of your negligence.
Step 2
Know the medical hazards of being bitten, and how to administer first aid. We encourage everyone to be aware of the CDC’s information regarding rattlesnake bites, what to do, and how to treat them.
Image from CDC website showing patient recovering from a rattlesnake bite.
Step 3
Know the species of rattlesnakes in the area for the participating landowner. Know what their habitats looks like, know what they sound like, and know their characteristics. If you see one, be respectful and safe; if you feel responsible and comfortable, you can take a picture and email it to the landowner for their datalog and archives. However, we’d prefer that you’d simply leave them alone and contact the landowner with their “rattlesnake sighting” questionnaire.
Step 4
Take pride in knowing that by establishing contact with the participating landowner and being respectful of their habitat, you’re doing your part in helping a broader ecosystem exist that isn’t frequently well understood, and easily feared.
Thank you in your understanding, compliance and support!