So far, 39 bites have been reported statewide in 2020 and counting
19 of those bites were recorded in the month of April, the month when rattlesnakes are the most active.
In warm deserts, rattlesnakes are most active March through October. During the spring, rattlesnakes are most active in the daylight hours. As the days become increasingly hot, usually around early May, rattlesnakes become more active at night.
It is important to remember that Arizona is home to 13 species of rattlesnake. The ones encountered most often are the Western diamondback, Mojave, black-tailed and sidewinder. Thomas Jones, amphibians and reptiles program manager for the Arizona Game and Fish Department, stated: “Arizona has more rattlesnake species than any other state, and we can all celebrate that amazing biodiversity.”
“Although accidents certainly happen, rattlesnakes are typically not dangerous unless provoked,” Jones said. By leaving rattlesnakes alone, you can significantly reduce your risk of being bitten. In fact, more than half of all rattlesnake bites are provoked by the person who was bitten.
- Remain calm and reassure the victim.
- Call 911/Seek medical attention without delay.
- Remove all jewelry, watches, etc. from the affected area.
- Immobilize the extremity and keep at level below the heart.
- Decrease total body activity as is feasible.
- Do not apply ice to the bite area.
- Do not use an incision of any kind.
- Do not use a constriction band or tourniquet.
- Do not administer alcohol or drugs.
- Do not use electric shock treatment.
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