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| HOME: WILDLIFE IN THE GARDEN: SNAKES: WESTERN RATTLESNAKE |
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Native habitat: Western rattlesnakes are found throughout Idaho, except at high elevations and in the northern part of the state. They prefer dry, rocky areas with sparse vegetation. Behavior: Western rattlesnakes eat mostly mice, ground squirrels, and rabbits. They're active from March to November, generally hunting throughout the day in moderate temperatures but preferring the earlier and later hours during the warm summer months. They seek their prey in or near tall grass, rodent burrows, rock outcrops, surface objects, or in the open, and they take shelter in crevices, caves, mammal burrows, and sometimes dense vegetation. Managing conflicts: Western rattlesnakes are rarely found in Idaho yards, but homeowners living at the urban-rural interface may occasionally see one. Be aware that well-camouflaged rattlesnakes may be waiting quietly for prey in rock crevices, under logs, in heavy brush, or even in tall grass, and be careful where you put your hands and feet. If you hear or see a rattlesnake, move slowly away from it. Few people are bitten by rattlesnakes in Idaho and, although pets have died, no human fatalities have been recorded. You should consider asking for assistance from a wildlife biologist or pest management professional if rattlesnakes are frequenting your yard. Plan to take steps to reduce your yard's attractiveness to snakes. In the event of a rattlesnake bite:
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