Rattlesnake Activity Rises on Central Coast Trails: Safety Tips for Hikers & Dog Owners

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY - As temperatures climb, rattlesnake activity is increasing across Southern California, prompting warnings for hikers, bikers, and pet owners. Officials say staying alert on trails is key, especially after several recent bites.

A 46-year-old woman from Moorpark died after being bitten while hiking at Wildwood Regional Park. Weeks earlier, a 25-year-old man from Costa Mesa also died following a rattlesnake bite in Irvine.

Since then, Ventura County fire crews have reported several more bites, including a teenager rescued from a trail in Newbury Park.

Experts emphasize that most bites are preventable.

“People shouldn’t be scared… just take basic precautions, which can reduce the chances of a bite to almost zero," says Emily Taylor of Central Coast Snake Services. "Wear good footwear, avoid tall grass, and watch where you place your hands and feet.”

Dogs are more likely to be bitten often on the face because they are curious and may approach snakes. Experts recommend rattlesnake avoidance training, which teaches dogs to recognize and back away from snakes.

If you see a rattlesnake on a trail, keep a safe distance of about 10 feet and slowly back away. Officials note that rattlesnakes generally avoid people, and fatal bites remain rare.