People and Pets Likely to Encounter Rattlesnakes

MAY 7, 2025 |

Photo – Prairie Rattlesnake seen north of Hanna – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99

Rattlesnake season has arrived. People and pets are more likely to encounter the venomous reptiles now, as they begin to emerge from their winter dens.

University of Wyoming’s Natural Diversity Database Director Dr. Gary Beauvais (pronounced “BO-vay”) said rattlesnakes become more active as temperatures climb. The snakes will begin leaving their winter burrows in search of food and mates, making them more likely to be out and about where they might come across people.

Rattlesnakes, like all snakes are cold blooded, meaning that they must use the outside air to regulate their body temperature. A cold snake is much less active.

Beauvais explained that this time of year, early spring, you are likely to see rattlesnakes basking in sunny places during the mornings and afternoons to increase their body temperature.

Roads are a common place to see rattlesnakes, as they offer a sunny spot for the reptiles to warm themselves. However, Beauvais said the snakes can be found nearly anywhere.

Wyoming is home to two different species of rattlesnake: the Midget Faded Rattlesnake, which can be found around the Flaming Gorge area, and the much more prolific Prairie Rattlesnake. Beauvais said the Prairie Rattlesnake is the only species found here in Carbon County.

Rattlesnakes can be found everywhere in Carbon County below 8,000 feet of elevation. Beauvais said the Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges do not provide an ideal habitat for the venomous reptiles.

As the weather continues to warm up, rattlesnake sightings will become more common. To avoid getting bitten, Beauvais said to exercise common sense and leave the snakes alone.

Beauvais said rattlesnake bites on humans are rare, with only three or four deaths a year. More than fifty percent of snakebite victims are young men who attempted to handle the venomous reptiles.

Pets are also at risk of being bitten by rattlesnakes.

Contact your local police department if you spot a rattlesnake in an area where it may come in contact with humans or pets.