Rattlesnake sightings increase on the Central Coast as temperatures rise
As temperatures climb, rattlesnake sightings are becoming more frequent on the Central Coast, prompting local snake handler Dan Burton to respond to numerous calls
Updated: 6:14 PM PDT Mar 26, 2026
As temperatures increase, rattlesnake sightings are becoming more frequent on the Central Coast, with local snake handler Dan Burton responding to numerous calls.Burton has been busy catching rattlesnakes near homes throughout the area, noting that spring is mating season for these snakes, which explains their increased presence. “People have a fear which is totally understandable. Some people have children outside, some people have pets,” Burton said. He has caught six rattlesnakes this week alone, but emphasized that only one was aggressive, while most did not strike at all.Burton advises that if you encounter a rattlesnake, it’s best to walk away. “If you’re out hiking in Fort Ord or Garland Park or, you know, just anywhere, you know, just let the snake do its thing. It’s going to be moving soon,” he said.Carmel Valley has been a hotspot for Burton’s calls, but hikers at Garland Ranch are accustomed to seeing snakes sunbathing on the trail. One hiker shared, “I go hiking a lot, so I’m used to that, but I mean, we’re going on their territory, so I wouldn’t be bothered by it.”However, not all hikers are comfortable with the presence of rattlesnakes.”I would probably freeze in that moment. I probably just be like. Oh my God. Panic,” Another hiker said.Experts warn that a rattlesnake bite can be life-threatening, with effects varying from person to person. If bitten, it is crucial to call 911 immediately.
CARMEL VALLEY, Calif. —
As temperatures increase, rattlesnake sightings are becoming more frequent on the Central Coast, with local snake handler Dan Burton responding to numerous calls.
Burton has been busy catching rattlesnakes near homes throughout the area, noting that spring is mating season for these snakes, which explains their increased presence.
“People have a fear which is totally understandable. Some people have children outside, some people have pets,” Burton said.
He has caught six rattlesnakes this week alone, but emphasized that only one was aggressive, while most did not strike at all.
Burton advises that if you encounter a rattlesnake, it’s best to walk away.
“If you’re out hiking in Fort Ord or Garland Park or, you know, just anywhere, you know, just let the snake do its thing. It’s going to be moving soon,” he said.
Carmel Valley has been a hotspot for Burton’s calls, but hikers at Garland Ranch are accustomed to seeing snakes sunbathing on the trail.
One hiker shared, “I go hiking a lot, so I’m used to that, but I mean, we’re going on their territory, so I wouldn’t be bothered by it.”
However, not all hikers are comfortable with the presence of rattlesnakes.
“I would probably freeze in that moment. I probably just be like. Oh my God. Panic,” Another hiker said.
Experts warn that a rattlesnake bite can be life-threatening, with effects varying from person to person. If bitten, it is crucial to call 911 immediately.