(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Park staff found a rattlesnake at Rock Ledge Ranch that had to be moved to Garden of the Gods.
According to the City of Colorado Springs, the rattlesnake was found in an area of Rock Ledge Ranch where it could harm people or be harmed by people. The snake was moved half a mile away to Garden of the Gods Park and released in a safer area.
Garden of the Gods manager, Anna Cordova, said snakes are left where they are by park staff unless they are deemed unsafe for either the snake or people in the area.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) said rattlesnakes prefer to hide as their first line of defense and will simply ignore you, thinking you can’t see them. However, CPW warns, if the snake coils up and rattles, you are too close and should move away slowly. Stepping back just a few feet can be enough to convince the snake you are not a threat.
Cordova said Rattlesnakes are an important part of the ecosystem, so park staff were careful with how they affect their natural behavior. Park staff only release any rattlesnakes moved within half a mile of where they were taken to ensure the snakes’ chances of survival.
CPW recommends the following tips when you are walking on a trail or spending time outdoors:
- Watch for snakes basking in sunny areas, like on trails, pavement, or rocks
- Be careful where you place your hands and feet, don’t put them in places that can easily hide a snake, like under a rock, logs, or in brush piles
- Use caution around dawn and dusk – it can be harder for us to see, and snakes can be more active
- Keep dogs on a short leash (6 feet or less) and don’t let them explore holes in the ground, rock piles, or other areas that can easily hold a snake
Cordova added that it is advised to stay on trail to drastically reduce your chances of encountering a rattlesnake and to follow the thumb rule with all wildlife. The National Parks Service said to hold your arm straight and give the animal a thumbs up. If you can’t cover the animal in your line of sight, you are too close.
CPW said most rattlesnakes will not strike at people unless they feel threatened or are deliberately provoked.
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