It's Snake Season. Keep Your Eyes Open!

It’s about that time of year again--snake season! We have about 27 different species of snakes here in Colorado, all of which provide a positive ecological benefit to our ecosystem. Snakes play an important role in regulating the population of rodents and unpleasant insects, such as ticks, in our Superior community. Yet, snakes continue to slither around with a bad reputation thanks in large part by their unique appearances and stealthy behaviors.

Here are a few tips and facts to help you avoid startling snake encounters this season:

• Snakes are ectothermic, which means they utilize external sources (i.e. sunlight, shade, rocks, etc.) to regulate their body temperature. As a result, temperature is a strong indicator of a snake’s whereabouts. For example, if it is hot and sunny, a snake is more likely to be in cooler, sometimes damp areas. They tend to be more active in mild weather, which means they tend to be out and about more around dusk and dawn. Be extra alert when utilizing trail systems during these hours!
• Snakes are preyed upon by birds. As a result, they can generally be found moving about in high grasses for their protection. Please stat on trail or watch your step if you must step off trail to allow another party to pass by.
• Of the 27 or so snake species in Colorado, only 2 species are poisonous. In Superior, we are only likely to encounter the prairie rattlesnake, which is a non-aggressive snake. It will attack in situations where it is threatened or physically harmed. It can take days or weeks for a rattlesnake to replenish its venom reserves after a non-dry bite leaving them vulnerable to their predators. Biting is a last resort for them!
  • To identify a western prairie rattlesnake, look for a broad, triangular head with a narrow neck and white outlined markings along its body. These are two general rules that you have encountered a venomous snake. 1) If you encounter a rattlesnake on the trail, back away slowly and seek an alternative route. 2) Keep your dog on a leash to avoid snake confrontation.

Please keep this information in mind when recreating outdoors this summer to reduce your surprising encounters with snakes! For more information check out Coping With Snakes or Snakes In Superior.