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With recent Nextdoor posts showing rattlesnake sightings around our community, it’s important for Oro Valley residents to understand the snakes in our area and how to stay safe.
Arizona is home to more rattlesnake species than any other state, with 13 different types calling our desert home. In the Oro Valley area, you’re most likely to encounter Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes, which are easily identified by their distinctive diamond pattern and black-and-white banded tails. These large snakes can reach 3-6 feet in length and are our region’s most commonly encountered venomous species.
Other rattlesnakes you might see include the Arizona Black Rattlesnake (found in nearby mountainous areas), Tiger Rattlesnakes (recognizable by their unusually small heads), and Sidewinders (small snakes with distinctive “horns” above their eyes, common in sandy washes).
Not all snakes are dangerous. Several beneficial species help control rodent populations around our homes. Kingsnakes are excellent to have in your yard – these non-venomous constrictors actually prey on rattlesnakes and other snakes. Their black bodies easily identify them with white or cream bands.
Gopher snakes are another helpful species, growing up to six feet long. While often mistaken for rattlesnakes due to their coloring, they lack the triangular head, heat-sensing pits, and rattle that characterize venomous species. These snakes are excellent rodent controllers and pose no threat to humans.
Coachwhip snakes are fast-moving, slender snakes that eat rodents and other snakes, including rattlesnakes. Though their size and speed may make them look intimidating, they’re completely harmless to humans.
All rattlesnakes in Arizona are venomous and should be treated with extreme caution. The Western Diamondback is particularly aggressive and won’t back down when threatened. While less common in Oro Valley proper, the Mojave Rattlesnake has the most potent venom of any North American snake, containing both neurotoxins and hemotoxins.
Remember: 60-70% of rattlesnake bites in Arizona occur when people try to move, capture, or harass the snake. Simply leaving them alone dramatically reduces your risk.
If a rattlesnake bites you or someone else, time is critical. Call 911 immediately and follow these steps:
DO:
DON’T:
Get to a hospital with anti-venom capabilities immediately. Facilities like Oro Valley Hospital, Banner University Medical Center Tucson, and TMC have anti-venom readily available in our area.
Pets, especially dogs, are at significant risk for rattlesnake encounters. Dogs are naturally curious and may investigate or chase snakes, putting them in danger. Rattlesnake bites in dogs cause rapid, severe swelling around paired puncture marks, and time is critical for treatment.
If your pet is bitten, keep it calm and immediately transport it to a veterinarian. Anti-venom can only be administered within 24-48 hours after the bite, so don’t delay seeking treatment. Most local Vets, including our Pusch Ridge Pet Clinic, and Local emergency veterinary facilities such as UrgentVet Oro Valley and Veterinary Emergency Group on Oracle Road.
Consider rattlesnake aversion training for your dogs—this specialized training teaches them to avoid snakes entirely. When hiking with pets, keep them on leashes and stick to trails. Check your yard before letting pets out at home, especially during dawn and dusk, when snakes are most active.
Most snake encounters can be avoided with simple precautions. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants when hiking or working in your yard. Use a flashlight when walking at night, and never reach into areas you can’t see clearly. Removing brush piles, tall grass, and debris where snakes might hide keeps your property tidy.
If you find a snake on your property, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. Contact professional snake removal services—many fire departments in our area, including Golder Ranch Fire District, provide safe relocation services.
Remember, snakes are an essential part of our desert ecosystem. We can coexist safely with these remarkable creatures with knowledge and respect while protecting ourselves and our families.