Thread by @MrAndrewDuBois

Spring emergence of Front Range snakes is upon us. Beginning early-mid April & lasting through May, prairie rattlesnakes leave their winter hibernacula & migrate to their foraging grounds. In this thread, I'll give you some biology facts & safety tips (1 of 7) #Jeffcotrails

During spring emergence, prairie rattlesnakes are primarily diurnal (daytime active) & more likely to be encountered by people. On cool, sunny days expect to find snakes flattened against trail surfaces, attempting to soak up some warmth to assist them with their journey (2 of 7)

To stay safe in snake country:

wear sturdy, close-toed shoes

keep pets leashed and discourage them from investigating tall grass, bushes, and rocks along the trail

if using headphones, keep one ear free so you can hear a warning rattle (3 of 7)

If you encounter a snake, give it time and space to move off the trail. Start with 30 feet and 30 seconds, increasing as necessary.

If you are bitten by a snake, stay calm, call 911, sit down or lie flat, keep the bite body-neutral, and monitor for severe symptoms (4 of 7)

Heading into June, high daytime temperatures will push prairie rattlesnakes into a more crepuscular (dawn/dusk active) or nocturnal (night active) lifestyle. By this time, most have arrived at their foraging grounds and don't make the same large movements seen in spring (5 of 7)

However, though they are less often encountered on trails, snakes are still active in summer. Protect yourself and pets from a nasty surprise by staying on trail, as snakes in ambush are usually hidden and less likely to give themselves away with a rattle. (6 of 7)

I'll continue to give snake updates throughout the active season. If you have any questions regarding prairie rattlesnakes in the Front Range, feel free to ask! Have fun and stay safe out there! (7 of 7)