News Team Boulder

Issue date: 4/21/09 Section: News

Every spring, Prairie Rattlesnakes come out of hibernation in droves -- and often hang out where Coloradans like to play outdoors.

Prairie Rattlesnakes are the largest venomous snake in this region of the country and are native all over the state of Colorado. They reach up to four and a half feet long, and pack enough potent venom to potentially kill a grown man, if untreated.

When the weather gets warm enough -- 75 degrees or more - Prairie Rattlesnakes hang out near prairie dog holes and areas of tall grass and good sun exposure to hunt for prey. The problem now is humans are building homes and extending hiking trails well into rattlesnake habitat, so encounters between humans and rattlesnakes are becoming inevitable.

In 2007, five bites were reported in several Denver suburbs, all occurring between the months of June and July. The victims were all enjoying outdoor activities when the incident occurred. In 2008, a 3-year-old Denver girl was bitten by a Rattlesnake in her own backyard. She later died from the lethal dose of venom.

But those who study rattlesnakes stress that they are vital to Colorado's ecosystem. Rattlesnakes are one of the most specialized predators in the Rocky Mountains, and play an important role in controlling the rodent populations.

"The last thing we want is to have a negative relationship where we're always killing them or in constant fear of them," said Evan Antin, a Boulder Herpetologist studying at Colorado State University. "It's not necessary."

Rattlesnake bites are easily avoided - their trademark rattles should warn you if you are too close. Simply putting a lot of space between you and the rattlesnake and walking away is the best way to avoid being bitten. When hiking, it's a good idea to also wear high hiking boots and jeans - and, of course, always keeping your ears alert for that unmistakable rattle sound.

If you are bitten by a rattlesnake, remain calm, and dial 911 immediately. Don't attempt to wrap the wound or suck out the venom - both treatments will only make the wound worse and potentially spread the venom through the body more quickly. Only hospitals equipped with the proper anti-venom can adequately treat a rattlesnake bite.

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