U.S. Forest Service warns of rise in rattlesnake sightings after two deadly SoCal bites
Following two recent fatal bites, the U.S. Forest Service warns of increased rattlesnake activity across Southern California as warm spring weather brings snakes out early, prompting officials to urge caution for hikers, bikers and pet owners.
Key takeaways
- Early warm weather has driven rattlesnakes out of dormancy sooner than usual, increasing encounters.
- Two recent fatalities in Ventura and Orange counties prompted the advisory; bites remain rare but concerning.
- Practical precautions: stay on trails, give snakes at least six feet of space, keep pets leashed and seek immediate medical care for bites.
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What the Forest Service said
San Bernardino National Forest rangers posted on social media on March 25, 2026, warning that higher temperatures have rattlesnakes emerging from winter lairs earlier than usual. Their advisory urged visitors to “stay alert, watch where you step and keep pets close.” Rangers added: give snakes space and never attempt to touch or disturb wildlife. (sources: CBS Los Angeles, KESQ, VVNG.)
Recent deadly and serious incidents
Two recent fatalities prompted the advisory:
- Ventura County: Gabriela Bautista, 46, was bitten while hiking in Wildwood Regional Park on March 14 and later died on March 19 from “rattlesnake venom toxicity in an accidental manner.” She was airlifted to a hospital after the bite. (ABC7, FOX LA)
- Orange County: A 25-year-old man died roughly a month after being bitten while mountain biking in Irvine earlier in March, according to reporting. (ABC7, CBS Los Angeles)
- Other early-2026 encounters include an airlifted hiker near a Moreno Valley trail (Riverside County) who recovered, and several Ventura County incidents involving a teenage girl on Wendy Trail and others — an uptick compared with 2025 totals. (ABC7, CBS Los Angeles)
Why encounters are rising
Wildlife and emergency officials point to an unusual early heat spike that pushed snakes out of dormancy weeks earlier than normal. Ventura County Fire Department officials described activity as “unusually early,” linking it to more sunny days and higher ground temperatures that make snake movement and hunting more likely. (FOX LA)
What to watch for: species and signs
Rattlesnakes in Southern California include several species commonly reported, notably the Southern Pacific rattlesnake and Western diamondback. Typical features: a broad, diamond-shaped head, blotched markings and a rattle at the tail. California is home to seven rattlesnake species overall. (CBS Los Angeles, ABC7)
Safety advice from officials
The U.S. Forest Service and local agencies recommend practical steps for hikers, bikers and pet owners:
- Stay on marked trails and avoid tall grass, brush and rock crevices. (CBS Los Angeles, ABC7)
- Give rattlesnakes at least six feet of space; they can strike more than half their body length. (ABC7)
- Wear long pants and sturdy boots; keep dogs leashed and close. (CBS Los Angeles, FOX LA)
- Do not touch, handle, kill or move a snake; never tease or disturb wildlife. (KESQ, VVNG)
First aid guidance and conflicting reports
Most health and emergency sources advise the same immediate steps after a venomous snake bite: call 911, keep the victim calm and still, keep the bite below heart level, remove tight clothing or jewelry, and get to emergency medical care quickly. Do not cut the wound, do not try to suck out venom, and do not apply ice. (ABC7, CBS Los Angeles, FOX LA)
Note: one local outlet suggested applying a tourniquet and staying put — advice that conflicts with modern medical guidance. Experts warn tourniquets can cause tissue damage and do not reduce systemic venom effects; follow 911 dispatcher and EMS instructions. (KESQ, CBS Los Angeles)
How common are bites?
Bites from venomous snakes remain relatively rare. Nationwide, the U.S. records about 7,000–8,000 venomous snakebites a year and roughly five deaths annually. California officials and the CDC note most snakes try to avoid people, but the early-season cluster in Southern California — including fatalities — has raised local concern. (ABC7, CBS Los Angeles)
Reporting and data gaps
Local reporting shows a surge in encounters and several serious outcomes, but public agencies do not yet have consolidated regional statistics for 2026. Emergency departments, wildlife agencies and county services collect bite reports differently, making rapid year-to-year comparisons difficult. Officials will monitor activity and update public advisories as conditions change. (CBS Los Angeles, ABC7)
Implications for San Diego, California
Outdoor recreation and public safety: San Diego’s extensive trail system could see increased encounters if warmer, early-spring conditions persist. Park managers should consider stepped-up warning signs, advisories and public education to promote safe practices. (CBS Los Angeles, ABC7)
Emergency services and hospitals: Even a small spike in snakebites can strain rural EMS and airlift capacity; planners may review readiness for venomous-bite cases and public messaging to reduce delays to care. (FOX LA, CBS Los Angeles)
Pet owners and families: Keep dogs leashed, stay on trails and watch where you step; local vets and animal hospitals may see more snakebite cases and should remind owners of prevention tips. (KESQ, VVNG)
Park operations and visitor education: Use signage, ranger patrols and social media to share USFS safety tips and correct first-aid guidance; consistent messaging helps avoid confusion from conflicting reports. (CBS Los Angeles, ABC7)
Sources and further reading
- CBS Los Angeles: “U.S. Forest Service warns of increased rattlesnake activity in Southern California”
- KESQ: “Forest Service warns outdoor enthusiasts to watch for rattlesnakes”
- VVNG: “San Bernardino National Forest warns visitors of active rattlesnakes as temperatures climb”
- ABC7: “Second deadly rattlesnake bite in Southern California trail prompts warning”
- FOX LA: “Second Southern California rattlesnake death in Moorpark hiker”
- USFS post
“As temperatures rise, rattlesnakes become more active in the forest. Stay alert, watch where you step and keep pets close.” — San Bernardino National Forest rangers
For hikers and outdoor users: take warnings seriously this spring. Follow San Bernardino National Forest guidance, know basic first aid, and call 911 immediately if someone is bitten.
