Natural History Wanderings

SF Gate reports

Rattlesnakes are thriving here, according to a recent joint Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and University of Michigan study, which reveals that the seven species of rattlesnakes found in California could experience more growth as other native animal populations shrink. Why? It’s the same answer that may be driving some to leave the Golden State altogether: climate change.

Read more Why California’s rattlesnake population is booming

KRON4 reports on Regional parks warn of rattlesnakes re-emerging

Officials with the East Bay Regional Park District are warning visitors and hikers of its parks to be aware of the re-emergence of snakes — most notably rattlesnakes — along some regional park trails.

Park district staff said Wednesday that trails in the East Bay regional parks make up the natural habitat for snakes. Snakes emerge in warm spring weather to explore their environment, which can lead to more encounters with humans and dogs.

Park district officials advise visitors and hikers to keep in mind the following safety precautions, including:

• Leave snakes, including rattlesnakes, alone. Do not try to capture it or harm it. All park wildlife is protected by law;

Read more at  Regional parks warn of rattlesnakes re-emerging | KRON4