Summer temperature increases lead to increased wildlife activity and higher probability of snake encounters. A rattlesnake was found inside a Walnut Creek resident's kitchen cabinet. Temperature is the primary factor affecting snake activity in the Bay Area. Gopher snakes commonly bask on trails and roads, while garter snakes are more common in urban areas. Rattlesnakes tend to occupy rockier habitats such as Mount Diablo and rarely enter houses. Snakes rely on camouflage and typically remain still; they are fearful of humans. Give snakes space to escape. Eighteen snake species inhabit the Bay Area; only the rattlesnake is dangerous to humans. Bites occur when snakes are handled, moved, or accidentally stepped on.
"It is very uncommon for rattlesnakes to make it into the house," said Barrios. "They tend to be in rockier areas, so they're very common in the Mount Diablo area, which is probably why in Walnut Creek you did find those snakes."
"Humans are the predator for reptiles, so snakes are actually very afraid of people. Better give them space to run away."
"You can even sit and watch it. Watching snakes in the wild is really cool," said Barrios. "People don't see snakes that often because they're pretty good at camouflage and staying safe."
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