Rattlesnake Season in Southern California

Rattlesnakes are most active in Southern California from spring through fall. Most bites happen when a snake is surprised or handled — so awareness is your best protection.

Stay safe outdoors

• Watch where you step and reach, especially near rocks, wood piles, and tall grass.
• Keep yards clear of debris and control rodents — snakes follow their food.
• Keep dogs leashed on trails and consider rattlesnake-aversion training.
• Never try to handle or kill a snake yourself — that’s when most bites occur.

Telling a rattlesnake from a gopher snake

Photos are from our own crews on real jobs across Orange County and Los Angeles — never stock.

If you find one at home

Keep people and pets away, and don’t approach it. A gopher snake is harmless and helpful, but you shouldn’t gamble on identification. We respond fast to remove snakes safely — including rattlesnakes — and proof your yard to reduce encounters. See our snake removal service.

If someone is bitten, stay calm, keep the limb still and below heart level, and call 911 immediately.