TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas wildlife officials say people are starting to a notice an increase in rattlesnake activity across the state thanks to a combination of warm temperatures and flooding.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) posted a warning on social media on Sept. 16 regarding a recent noticeable rise in rattlesnake activity. The KDWP reports that its field staff are seeing more of the venomous snakes out and about than usual, most likely due to continued warm weather and rainfall.
“Venomous snakes, including several rattlesnake species and copperheads, are found in Kansas, but most snakes you’ll encounter are nonvenomous. All snakes play an important role in our ecosystems, and snakebites in Kansas are rarely fatal with effective treatment available.”
KDWP social media statement excerpt
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Kansas is home to more than 40 species of snakes, but only a few are considered dangerous due to the venom they carry. Some rattlesnakes are more rarely seen, such as western diamondback rattlesnakes, while others can be found in numerous counties across Kansas.
- Timber rattlesnake
- Prairie rattlesnake
- Western massasauga rattlesnake
- Western diamondback rattlesnake
- Cottonmouth
- Western rattlesnake
The KDWP recommends people take precautions when traveling outdoors by keeping an eye on where they step, being cautious around logs or rocks where snakes may be sheltering and giving snakes plenty of space. People who are bitten should stay calm, call 911 or try to get to a hospital quickly.
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