BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Snake sightings are starting earlier than usual this year across Kern County, with residents reporting encounters in backyards and along hiking trails with both venomous and non-venomous snakes.
Coachwhip snake periscoping. (Photo: Melissa Storti)
Melissa Storti of Storti’s Wildlife Control in Tehachapi said snakes in Kern County can serve as “nature’s pest control,” and that seeing one “doesn’t automatically mean trouble,” but people should know how to respond and give snakes space.
Storti identified the Northern Pacific rattlesnake as a venomous snake.
“If you hear a rattle, you don’t just take off running out of fear,” Storti said. “The best thing to do is stop, look, and observe where the snake is, and then back away slowly.”
Storti said snakes are emerging from “groomation” in Kern County.
“Groomation is a type of hibernation. That’s snakes will put themselves in during the colder months,” she said.
(Photo: Ashly and Daniel Buschman)
Storti added that “weather conditions right now are perfect” and that “both snakes and people are out and about at the same time,” noting Kern County’s hiking trails are drawing people outdoors.
Storti said residents may encounter both venomous and non-venomous snakes in the region.
“The venomous snakes that you will encounter in this region would be the Northern Pacific rattlesnake,” she said, adding that non-venomous snakes include “your gopher snakes, California king snakes, coach whips, uh, glossy snakes, night snakes.”
Non-venomous snakes are harmless but can resemble rattlesnakes, which is why experts recommend calling a professional rather than trying to handle a snake.
“Most residents will want to go ahead and take matters into their own hands, but what you’re doing is you’re not only dispatching a snake that is very valuable to our ecosystem,” Storti said. “You may be putting yourself at risk or in danger in the event that it is a venomous snake.”
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If a snake is found in or around a home, residents are urged to give it space and contact a professional. In the rare case of a bite, guidance included staying calm, keeping the area still, removing tight jewelry, and never cutting the wound, trying to suck out venom, or using a tourniquet.
“And call 911 or seek medical attention immediately,” Storti said.
For more information about Storti’s Wildlife Control, including services and contact details, visit their website.