A visit to California’s poppy fields may now come with an unexpected encounter: a rattlesnake.
On Sunday, a photographer with the Times, Raul Roa, captured a rattlesnake hidden amongst a bed of poppies south of Highway 138 in Lancaster. The video shows the snake flicking its tongue, a behavior used to detect chemical cues and identify potential prey or predators.
The snake appears to be a Mojave rattlesnake, often called a “Mojave green,” and is known to inhabit the Antelope Valley, part of the Western Mojave Desert. California is home to approximately 50 species of rattlesnake, with seven of those being venomous – including the Mojave, Western diamondback, red diamond, Southern Pacific, Northern Pacific, Great Basin, and speckled rattlesnake, according to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Rattlesnakes can grow to be between 1 and 8 feet long and weigh up to 10 pounds, depending on the species, as noted by the Los Angeles Zoo. Despite their potential danger, rattlesnakes typically avoid confrontation, preferring to retreat unless disturbed or cornered, according to a 1991 Times report.
Rattlesnakes are typically most active in the spring and summer months, but encounters have been reported earlier this year. Last month, a 25-year-old man died following a suspected rattlesnake bite on a hiking trail in Irvine, and a teenage girl in Ventura County survived a bite with minor injuries.
Stay back from the flowers
Park officials at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve warn visitors to stay on marked trails and avoid wading into the blooms. Rattlesnakes are known to hide among dense vegetation, like the poppies themselves. Hikers are advised to walk slowly, stay alert, and keep children close. Dogs are not permitted at the reserve, with the exception of service dogs.
What to do if you are bitten
Before heading to the poppy fields or any hiking trail, it’s wise to have a map in hand. Rattlesnake bites most commonly occur on the hands, feet, and ankles, so wearing ankle-high boots, thick socks, and loose-fitting pants is recommended. If bitten, call 911 immediately.
The UC Davis Health Center advises against applying ice or a tourniquet, attempting to suck out the venom, or using a cutting device. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends avoiding painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, and refraining from consuming alcohol or caffeine. Washing the wound with soap and water is advised, while antiseptic wipes should be avoided. Remove any jewelry, such as watches and rings, in case of swelling, and remain calm until medical attention arrives. Fatal bites are exceedingly rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Mojave Green rattlesnake look like?
The snake captured in the poppy field appeared to be a Mojave rattlesnake, often called a “Mojave green.”
How many venomous rattlesnake species are in California?
Only seven native rattlesnake species are venomous in California, including the Mojave, Western diamondback, red diamond, Southern Pacific, Northern Pacific, Great Basin, and the speckled rattlesnake.
What should you do if you encounter a rattlesnake on a trail?
If you spot a rattlesnake on the trail, alert park staff. Park officials advise staying on marked trails and walking slowly.
As the poppy fields reach peak bloom through May, will you adjust your plans to prioritize safety and awareness of your surroundings?
