Rattlesnakes Cause for Concern in Hanna

JULY 10, 2025 |

Photo – Rattlesnake near a Hanna resident’s 4-wheeler – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99

Hanna residents are concerned about the unusually high number of rattlesnakes in town.

During the July 8th Hanna Town Council meeting, Public Works Director Larry Korkow announced that his crew killed four rattlesnakes in the northwestern section of town, known as Old Town. This prompted Councilwoman Ellen Freeman to ask why so many snakes were coming into town. Public Works Director Korkow responded that he believed the dry weather and overabundance of prairie dogs are attracting the venomous reptiles.

The snakes in question are Prairie Rattlesnakes, the only species found here in Carbon County. Their venom uses a mix of hemotoxins, which damage tissue and blood vessels, and neurotoxins, which target the nervous system. Bites may cause severe pain, swelling, nausea, and in rare cases, organ damage and respiratory failure. However, the venom is considered moderate compared to other rattlesnake species, and a bite victim is likely to survive if medical treatment is promptly received.

At the July 8th Hanna Town Council meeting, Public Works Director Korkow said he has never seen so many snakes in town and reported that a nest may be located near the Hanna Elementary School.

Mayor Charlie George said mowing may initially displace the snakes but continued mowing will eventually help keep the animals out of residents’ yards.

Prairie rattlesnakes can be found throughout Carbon County at elevations below 8,000 feet.

Speaking to Bigfoot99 in May, University of Wyoming’s Natural Diversity Database Director Dr. Gary Beauvais said the best way to avoid snake bites is to leave the animals alone.

To slow the increasing number of rattlesnake encounters, Hanna residents are encouraged to mow tall grassy areas of their yards. Residents who spot a rattlesnake are encouraged to call the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 324-2776. Deputies will attempt to send a professional snake handler to remove the reptile. Immediately call 911 and seek emergency medical care if you are bitten by a rattlesnake.