Track Rattlesnake Sightings in the Tri-Valley

By Jane McInnis

With last week's rattlesnake bite and readers' comments showing that other rattlesnakes have been spotted and heard in the Tri-Valley area, Patch has put together a map for residents to mark rattlesnake sightings.

On July 18, at 7:20 p.m., a 5-year-old boy was bitten in the tall grasses near the batting cages at Sycamore Park in Blackhawk, according to the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, which responded to the scene. The boy's older brother was playing ball with the Tassajara Valley Little League. 

The boy had puncture wounds and was admitted to John Muir Medical Center. According to the president of the Tassajara Valley Little League, the boy has been released from the hospital and is doing as well as expected.

[Story detailing first-aid treatment and avoiding rattlers here.]

It's common for rattlers to be active this time of year, said Mt. Diablo Ranger Carl Nielson, who said this has been an average season for the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake. He said the snakes are more active on moderate days, but tend to be more active at night during hot days.

Nielson said rattlers were most likely in the fields to feast on rodents, mice and baby squirrels.

The Northern Pacific Rattler can grow up to 48 inches in length and has a distinguishing triangular head. 

The San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District recommends that in the event of a bite, keep the affected area level or horizontal to the heart.

For more information and photos on the North Pacific Rattler, visit this guide.

Contra Costa County Rattlesnake Bite Tips can be found here.