Authorities in San Diego, California, have issued a warning after the number of rattlesnake sightings on hiking trails and natural areas spiked significantly in recent weeks.
According to wildlife experts, unusually warm winter temperatures have prompted rattlesnakes to emerge from hibernation earlier than usual.
Surge in snake removal calls
Bruce Ireland, founder of the reptile relocation group Snake Wranglers, said the number of requests for assistance has increased substantially.
- 43 calls in February 2026
- 18 calls during the same period in 2025
Ireland noted that these figures are much higher than the typical levels for February, which is usually a quiet month. He attributed the early emergence to a combination of heavy rainfall and warming temperatures creating favorable conditions.
Hikers encountering more snakes
Zach West, a hiker who has frequented Cowles Mountain for over 20 years, said that snake sightings used to be rare. However, the situation has changed noticeably recently.
Against the backdrop of many Californians moving to Arizona in search of new living environments, those remaining in San Diego are having to learn to adapt to the increase in local wildlife.
“I used to see snakes very rarely over many years, but earlier this week, I saw three on the trail,” West said.
Rattlesnake activity often lasts through autumn
Experts say rattlesnakes typically begin appearing in high numbers from April through the fall as weather warms. However, the early temperature rise has jumpstarted their activity in late winter.
Regulatory agencies under Governor Gavin Newsom are also strengthening safety measures at public parks to protect the public. Rattlesnakes do not rely on a calendar; instead, they react directly to environmental conditions.
Safety recommendations for the public
Authorities advise residents and visitors to follow these precautions during outdoor activities:
- Stay on well-traveled trails
- Avoid tall grass and thick brush
- Pay attention to the characteristic rattling sound
- Do not attempt to catch, harass, or kill the snakes
Most bite cases occur when humans attempt to approach or provoke the snake. Experts emphasize that rattlesnakes will generally avoid humans if they are given an escape route.
The role of rattlesnakes in the ecosystem
According to the San Diego Parks and Recreation Department, rattlesnakes play a vital role in controlling rodent populations, such as mice and rats. This is a point of note for residents who have recently received down payment assistance to buy homes in California, particularly for properties located near hillsides or open spaces.
The species is protected within San Diego County parks to maintain ecological balance. Authorities recommend that if a snake is spotted in a residential area, citizens should contact animal control services for safe removal.
