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Colorado’s Wet Spring Raises Rattlesnake Bite Threat

Experts link the wetter conditions to rodent population booms that increase snake activity in popular outdoor areas.

Image
This undated image made from a video provided by Project RattleCam shows a "mega den" of rattlesnakes in a remote location in northern Colorado. (Project RattleCam via AP, File)

Overview

  • Most rattlesnake bites in Colorado occur between May and October when warmer weather drives snakes out of hibernation.
  • About half of snake bites happen when people try to handle or move snakes, making those incidents largely preventable.
  • A 2018 study by CU Boulder and Stanford University found that wetter weather boosts rodent numbers and leads to more snake-human encounters.
  • Rattlesnake venom disrupts blood clotting, causing rapid swelling, intense pain and the risk of muscle tissue death without prompt care.
  • Medical toxicologists warn that snake-bite kits can worsen injuries and advise using a cellphone to call for help and reaching an emergency department quickly.