Spending summer months in the great outdoors often means dealing with rattlesnakes. Rattlesnakes roam across several states, from coastal to mountain ranges. Many western states are afflicted by this poisonous creature include California, Arizona, Texas and New Mexico. In California alone, 800 residents are bitten each year and about two end up dying from their bites. The species that are most common to the Western US include the Northern Pacific Rattler, Western Diamond Back, Sidewinder, Speckled Rattlesnake, Red Diamond Rattler, Southern Pacific, Great Basin and Mohave Rattlesnake.

Rattlesnakes can be found anywhere, but commonly find shelter among high grass and rocks. In the evening, when the weather cools, they often venture out onto dirt roads and streets to absorb the warmth into their bodies.

Apart from the rattle, the most distinctive indentifying characteristics of the rattlesnake is a wide, flat triangular head, much broader in back than front, with a distinct neck region. The rattlesnakes has openings between the nostrils and eyes, which are hooded with elliptical pupils. There are also a series of dark and light bands near the tail above the rattles, that differ from the markings on the rest of the body.

If you come across the path of a rattlesnake, the simple thing to do is get out of that area. If youre feeling particularly brave, you can kill it with a rock, shovel or snakeshot. To protect other people and animals, you should bury the head, as the poison remains deadly even once the snake has been killed.

If you are bitten by a rattlesnake, stay calm and get to a doctor as soon as possible. The California Poison Control Center advises:

1. Stay Calm
2. Wash bite area gently with soap and water
3. Remove watch, rings, etc. that may constrict swelling
4. Immobilize the affected area
5. Transport safely to nearest medical facility.

Remember that a rattlesnake bite is potentially fatal, so be cautious and always watch your step. Be aware of your surroundings and that of your family while enjoying your summer in the great outdoors.

Elizabeth Smith

Elizabeth is a proud WAHM that dabbles in a variety of business. Her gift basket business, Crafty Gift Creations, has been online since July 2005. She recently began a blog page entitled That Country Charm ~ For Those Who Live In or Long For the Country. In addition, she works part-time as Editorial Assistant of Promotions and Partnerships at ModernSage.com, a leading natural health women's online community. She enjoys writing articles in her spare time.