Slithering into spring - warmer weather brings snakes out of winter dens Published March 16, 2011 By Environmental Management office EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- As spring and warmer temperatures arrive at Edwards, various species of snakes emerge from their winter dens and base residents should take precautions to avoid close contact with these slithering creatures. When it comes to snakes, staying away is staying safe. The best way to avoid getting bitten by any snake is to simply stay away from it, base biologists say. When outdoors, Team Edwards members should always watch where they put their hands and feet. If walking through dense shrubs or vegetation, heavy long pants and high boots should be worn. In the summer, many of the snakes on base are active during the day, but may hide under shady areas or become active at night to keep from overheating when it gets too hot. The rattlesnakes are most active at night, when it is cooler. The snakes most often seen on base are the California king snake, the red coach whip, the Great Basin gopher snake and the Mojave green rattlesnake. The nine remaining species include the desert night snake, long-nosed snake, lyre snake, Mojave Desert sidewinder, Mojave glossy snake, rosy boa, spotted leaf-nosed snake, western patch-nosed snake and the western shovel-nosed snake. Of these snakes, only the Mojave green and the sidewinder rattlesnakes are venomous. Base biologists recommend that people observe the wild snakes from afar and always refrain from handling them. Snakes can give a painful bite, even though most of the snakes on base are considered harmless to humans. If a person is bitten, it is important to note what kind of snake it was or what it looked like. If the bite was from a rattlesnake, call 911, refrain from eating or drinking, remain still and as calm as possible and remove anything that could prevent blood flow in the area. Do not cut the wound to try to drain the venom. With non-rattlesnake bites, wash the wound with soap and water -- not chemicals -- to prevent infection. If an injured snake is found or for general questions about snakes, please contact the Environmental Management office at 277-1401.