Rosy Boas, Coachwhips and Rattlesnakes . . . Oh, My!
We have an urgent question about snakes from a very nice woman who is coming to Scottsdale in a matter of days. So, no dilly-dallying this month – let’s jump right in and try to put her mind at ease.
Kay H. of Kansas City, Missouri, writes:
We are planning a trip to the Scottsdale area and would love to take some of the desert hikes I have been reading about on your Web site. However, I am afraid of snakes. What is the likelihood of coming across one (and what kind do you have) on the trails?
The good news about snakes is that they don’t want to encounter humans any more than we want to encounter them! Snakes also typically avoid open spaces (like trails) that would leave them vulnerable to predators. While it is possible that you might see a snake during your hike, the chances are fairly slim, particularly if you stay on clearly marked trails.
As for the types of snakes that live in the Sonoran Desert, there are quite a few, ranging from garter snakes, coachwhips, rosy boas and kingsnakes to the more infamous coral and rattle snakes. We’re actually quite lucky (really, we are!) to have a wide variety of snakes living in the desert because they are natural predators of a host of other animals (such as rats and mice) that cause plant damage and can carry diseases. Now, this probably won’t make you feel all warm and fuzzy about snakes, but consider giving the little guys a break – they’re very important to the desert ecosystem!
Here are a few tips for avoiding our reptilian neighbors while you’re hiking:
- Stay on marked trails at all times.
- As you walk, scan the trail in front of you to make sure it is free of snakes and other obstacles.
- Wear close-toed shoes or hiking boots (no sandals)
- Identify everything before you pick it up – if you can’t identify it, don’t pick it up.
- Don’t place your hand, foot or other body part anywhere that you can’t see (snakes are more likely to be seeking shelter in holes and under rocks and brush than they are to be sitting out in the open)
- Don’t pick-up or step on rocks, branches, tree stumps, etc. without checking around them.
Last but not least, a couple of non-snake-related tips for hiking in the desert – always carry plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a cell phone and, last but not least, a camera to capture all the beautiful scenery!
See you next month!
