Only in Your State | New Mexico
Summer is well underway in the Land of Enchantment. Over the last couple of weeks, temperatures have continued warming up, and with the heat, one notorious little creature has been popping up around the state.
Sunny days mean people are working in their yards, picnicking in parks and finding hiking trails to explore. It’s a season for being outside, but with the great outdoors comes a tale of caution.
As the mercury rises on our thermometers, snakes around the state are slithering to find sources of water and cooler temperatures. Now, while some are very dangerous, not all are.
Some are non-venomous, like bull snakes. Others are mostly harmless, like garter snakes. But, as any resident of New Mexico should know, rattlesnakes are the ones that will have you constantly watching your step.
New Mexico is home to 7 species of rattlesnakes, found in the states deserts, plains and forests. These dangerous animals can be found everywhere, which makes it a good idea to know where they live and what to do if you encounter one.
New Mexico State University’s College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences has a helpful and extensive guide about living near snakes.
In a nutshell, the guide explains that in the spring, rattlesnakes lay eggs and lie in wait for prey to cross their path. Typically, rattlesnakes prefer areas that are dark and cool, where they can hide. These are places like firewood stacks, tall grass and shrubs.
Because New Mexico’s rattlers are mostly brown, grey or green in color, they can easily blend into their environment. This is why it’s so important to keep an eye out for them when you’re on a hike, doing yard work or just taking a walk in a park with your dog.
Can you see the snake in the photo below? It’s a wonderful example of their camouflage.
It’s important to also keep in mind that while rattlesnakes aren’t aggressive animals, they are extremely defensive. If they are cornered or encounter a threat by larger animals, they will strike from their coiled pose.
Studies show that approximately 80 people per year were bitten by rattlers in New Mexico. People rarely die of rattlesnake bites these days thanks to anti-venom, but the emergency treatment costs can quickly add up to a very hefty bill, and permanent damage is a very high risk. Below is a gallery of images that shows a finger bite that a snake removal expert experienced (some images may be graphic).
Depending on its length, rattlers can strike up to five feet away. If you do spot a snake while out and about, the best thing to do is keep as much distance as possible between you and the snake.
If you are bitten, the New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center recommends staying calm, immobilizing the bite area keeping it level with the heart, and seeking medical treatment immediately.
Keep a close eye out and an open ear as you spend your time outside this summer, especially in the morning and evening.
Watch your step, and have a great summer!
Resources:
Watch Your Step, More Rattlesnakes Are Emerging From Their Dens Around New Mexico
