Crotalus oreganus, also known as the Western rattlesnake, can be commonly found in California. It is known for the rattle that its tail makes and the venomous bite it has. As many as 20 rattlesnake bite calls have been reported by the California Poison Control System (CPCS). The 20 reports do not include the number of people who went to emergency care on their own after being bitten, without the help of an ambulance. The Poison Control has alerted many Californians who bike, hike, camp, or live in the desert to warn them about the dangers of rattlesnakes. Especially as the summer is quickly approaching, so are rattlesnakes as they are more likely to be found on hiking trails during warmer weather. The agency has also warned Californians to be cautious of younger rattlesnakes as well as they also possess dangerous venom. Between April and October is when the most rattlesnake bites are reported.

According to Jason Magee, the owner of an Orange County Snake Removal Company, there will be a 15% increase of rattlesnakes next year. The increase of rain causes more snakes to reproduce which is why California will see more snakes in the near future. Although the CPCS deems the odds of getting bit by a rattlesnake is small, about 300 reported cases a year in California, they still advise people to be cautious around the reptile.

The symptoms of a rattlesnake bite include swelling around the bitten area, pain, difficulty in breathing, vomiting, blurred vision, numbness, and more. Dr. Rais Vohra, a medical director of CPCS, stresses the importance of receiving medical care as soon as possible. Few bites are fatal, however, receiving care immediately is very crucial. It is advised to bitten victims not to apply ice, not to apply a tourniquet around the bitten area, and not to suck out the venom. Rattlesnakes do not always make a rattling sound, so hikers must be very cautious throughout trails. Children and pets need to be supervised carefully outside. Poison Control can be contacted for any further questions about poison encounters at 1-800-222-1222. Poison Control has many nurses, trained pharmacists, and other healthcare providers to answer any questions 24 hours a day.