By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Monsoon is triggering a surge in rattlesnake activity across Southern Arizona, and wildlife removal businesses say they are already seeing an increase in calls.
Read more Arizona firefighter killed battling Colorado wildfire remembered at memorial service
Jeff Carver, co-owner of Arizona Animal Experts, said the increase is immediate once the rains arrive.
“Yeah, we’re getting an increase in snake calls, we’ve gotten 3 this morning already,” Carver said.
Why rain draws rattlesnakes out
While snakes get most of their moisture from prey, Carver said fresh rain pools are an additional draw.
“They still like to have the water, and it helps them with everything from bodily functions to shedding,” he said.
Where snakes are hiding
Carver said rattlesnakes are not always found where people expect them.
“Typically, they’re hunkered down in corners, under the patio furniture…pots and plants by front doors,” he said. “It’s one of my pet peeves when people put the beautiful pot with the plants cascading down right by the front door — you’d be surprised how many times we get the snakes right there.”
Carver said the snakes are not actively seeking out people.
“The snake is not lying in wait for us. They don’t want to hunt us,” he said.
He added that the rattlesnake’s signature sound is a warning, not an attack signal.
“The rattle serves no other purpose… it is to warn us ‘Hey I’m here, leave me alone,’” Carver said.
Snake repellents, pets, and handling
For those considering commercial snake repellents, Carver said the products are not effective.
Read more Forward progress stopped on Sunnvale Fire in Pinal County river bottom
“They just don’t care… they’re more likely to affect the rodent… than they are the snake,” he said.
Pet owners should also take precautions. Carver said dogs are particularly vulnerable because of how they investigate their surroundings.
“Most dog bites are on the face and head… the big part of our snake training for dogs is to train them for that scent so that they avoid that,” he said.
Carver also warned against attempting to handle a snake without proper equipment, noting that bites often follow risky behavior.
“Normally I tell people that most snake bites occur on males between the ages of 16 and 25 — go figure — that’s usually right after the statement ‘hold my beer,’” he said.
===================================================
Are you streaming 13 News?
Watch a free live stream of Tucson Now and 13 News at TucsonNow.Live.
Be sure to download the free Tucson Now app which you can find on Apple and Google.
If you are using a desktop computer, you can use your mobile device to scan the QR code below.
Read more Extreme Heat Warning mid-week; Storm chances later
You can submit your breaking news or weather images here.