Plus: a reader wonders about birdbaths and mosquito season.
A rattlesnake coiled in brush at the Los Vaqueros Reservoir on Thursday, June 1, 2023, near Brentwood, Calif. A couple of years ago, I came across an unusual and relatively large rattlesnake in the Walnut Creek open space.
At the time, I thought it must be a variant of Pacific rattlesnake since that’s what I understood was the only species in this area, but recently in the East Bay Times, I saw an article on rattlesnakes that showed a picture of a red diamond rattler that looked remarkably like the one I saw. Its range, however, is restricted to the San Diego area.
I think it’s just as likely that it was a case of mistaken identity. The Bay Area is home to a number of snake species. The Pacific rattlesnake is the only one that is venomous and therefore gets the most attention. As we venture out to regional parks, open space and our own backyards, remember that snakes, too, are coming out to soak up the sun. Watch where you step. The Pacific rattlesnake, while deadly, is also a shy animal and usually slithers away, but you don’t want to startle it.Because of the mosquito problem in Santa Clara County, we have been advised not to have any standing water outside. This includes bird baths.
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