Emergency Call from Pacific Union College HousingAt approximately 11:30 a.m., I received a call from the property manager for housing at Pacific Union College in Angwin, California. A tenant had spotted a small rattlesnake just outside the front door of their home.

Before calling me, the college had already dispatched a maintenance crew to search for the snake. Despite their efforts, they were unable to locate it. This is an incredibly common situation. Rattlesnakes are masters of camouflage and can disappear into landscaping, rocks, wood piles, or vegetation within seconds.

Fortunately, the maintenance staff made the right decision. Rather than continuing to search without the proper snake handling equipment or specialized training, they contacted a professional.

The Challenge
​
When I received the call, I was already working another wildlife removal job in Sausalito and had a scheduled appointment in San Rafael at 1:00 p.m.
I explained to the property manager that I would respond as quickly as possible, but I couldn't guarantee the snake would still be there by the time I arrived—especially since it had already gone missing once.

Many people assume that if a rattlesnake disappears, it has left the property. In reality, they often move only a short distance and hide in places that are difficult to see.

The Snake Reappears

By the time I arrived in Angwin later that afternoon, I received some good news.
Just three minutes before I pulled up, two of the residents had located the snake between the home and the detached garage.

The young rattlesnake was attempting to retreat into a hole near the garage foundation.
The residents were doing everything they could to prevent it from escaping by carefully using long-handled garden tools to block its path.

While I appreciated their efforts, I immediately noticed something concerning.
Both men were wearing flip-flops.

Why You Should Never Try to Handle a Rattlesnake Yourself

It's understandable that homeowners want to keep track of a rattlesnake until help arrives. However, attempting to control or corner one without proper training can become dangerous very quickly.

Even though this snake was only about one year old, juvenile rattlesnakes are fully venomous and capable of delivering a medically significant bite.

Footwear like sandals or flip-flops offers essentially no protection against a strike. A bite to the foot or ankle can happen in a fraction of a second.

If you discover a rattlesnake on your property:

• Stay several feet away.
• Keep children and pets indoors.
• If it is safe to do so, watch the snake from a distance so you can tell the removal professional where it is.
• Never attempt to pin, trap, or kill the snake yourself.
• Avoid standing directly in front of the snake or blocking its escape route.                                     

Safe Removal

After assessing the situation, I carefully approached the snake using professional snake handling equipment.
Because the residents had successfully kept the rattlesnake from disappearing into the hole, I was able to safely secure it within moments.

The young rattlesnake was gently picked up with my snake tongs and placed into my secure snake transport bucket without injury to the snake or risk to the residents.
The entire removal took only a few minutes once I arrived.

Why Recently Mowed Grass Can Increase Snake Sightings

One interesting detail about this call was that the tall grass surrounding the home had recently been mowed.
This often leads to an increase in rattlesnake sightings—not because mowing attracts snakes, but because it removes the cover they were using to remain hidden. After vegetation is cut, snakes frequently move toward nearby rocks, retaining walls, garages, foundations, wood piles, or landscaped areas where they can find shelter.
For this reason, homeowners should remain especially alert for several days after mowing large areas of vegetation.

Fast, Professional Rattlesnake Removal in Angwin

Every rattlesnake call is different. Sometimes the snake is exactly where the homeowner last saw it, and other times it disappears for hours before being found again.

Having someone respond who understands rattlesnake behavior, carries the proper equipment, and can safely remove the animal makes all the difference.

In this case, everyone stayed safe, the rattlesnake was removed without incident, and the residents could once again use their property with peace of mind.

If you've found a rattlesnake in Angwin, Pacific Union College housing, or anywhere in Napa County, don't take unnecessary risks. Keep your distance, keep pets and family members away from the area, and call a qualified rattlesnake removal professional as soon as possible.

Understanding Rattlesnake Venom, Snake Bites, and What to Do If You Find a Rattlesnake on Your
​Property.

[HERO IMAGE: Northern Pacific Rattlesnake on a residential property]


Every year, thousands of people across the United States are bitten by venomous snakes, and rattlesnakes account for the majority of those bites in California...



What Is Rattlesnake Venom?
[IMAGE: Close-up of rattlesnake fangs]


Rattlesnake venom is a complex mixture of proteins, enzymes, and toxins that evolved to immobilize prey and begin the digestive process...



What Happens When a Human Is Bitten?
[IMAGE: Medical example showing swelling from a venomous snake bite]


The effects of a rattlesnake bite can vary depending on several factors..
.
What Is Antivenom?
[IMAGE: Hospital antivenom treatment being administered through an IV]


Antivenom is a specialized medication designed to neutralize snake venom circulating within the body...


What Should You Do If You Find a Rattlesnake in Your Yard?
[IMAGE: Rattlesnake found near a patio, garden, or home foundation]


Finding a rattlesnake in your yard can be alarming, especially if you have children, pets, or guests on the property...


Stay Calm and Keep Your DistanceKeep Children and Pets AwayDo Not Attempt to Kill the SnakeMonitor the Snake From a Safe Distance
What If a Rattlesnake Gets Inside Your Home?
[IMAGE: Rattlesnake inside a garage, barn, or workshop]
Although uncommon, rattlesnakes occasionally enter garages, barns, workshops, crawl spaces, and even homes...


Why Are Rattlesnakes Attracted to Some Properties?

[IMAGE: Brush pile, wood pile, rock wall, or rodent habitat]
Rattlesnakes are usually attracted to properties because they offer food, water, or shelter..
.
How Can Rattlesnake Bites Be Prevented?
[IMAGE: Person wearing boots while walking in rattlesnake habitat]


The best treatment for a rattlesnake bite is preventing one from happening in the first place...
Professional Rattlesnake Removal in Napa Valley
[IMAGE: Ryan Taylor performing a rattlesnake removal]


Many rattlesnake bites occur when people attempt to move, kill, or handle a snake themselves...


Ryan Taylor of Taylor's Trapping Service provides rapid-response rattlesnake removal throughout Napa Valley and surrounding communities. Whether the snake is in a backyard, garage, vineyard, barn, garden, crawl space, or inside a home, professional rattlesnake removal can help protect your family, pets, employees, and visitors while ensuring the snake is safely handled and relocated.

How Many People Have Been Bitten by Rattlesnakes in California in 2026?
​California is experiencing an unusually active rattlesnake season in 2026. According to reports from the California Poison Control System, at least 77 rattlesnake bite incidents were reported during the first three months of the year alone. That number represents a significant increase compared to typical years and has prompted warnings from wildlife experts, medical professionals, and poison control officials across the state.
While rattlesnake bites remain relatively uncommon compared to California's population, the increase in encounters serves as an important reminder that rattlesnakes are active throughout much of the state, including Napa County, Sonoma County, Solano County, Marin County, and many other Northern California communities.
Where Were People When They Were Bitten?A review of reported rattlesnake bite incidents throughout California shows that most victims were participating in outdoor activities when they were bitten. Common locations included:
Hiking TrailsMany of the reported bites in 2026 occurred while people were hiking. Victims often stepped too close to a rattlesnake resting beside a trail or accidentally surprised a snake hidden in vegetation.
Mountain Biking TrailsAt least one fatal rattlesnake bite in California during 2026 involved a mountain biker. Fast-moving cyclists can unintentionally approach snakes before noticing them, leaving little time to react.
Rural PropertiesNot all rattlesnake bites occur in remote wilderness areas. Some victims were bitten while walking on private property, working in their yards, or moving through areas where rattlesnakes commonly seek shelter.
Backyards and Residential LandscapesNorthern Pacific Rattlesnakes frequently enter residential properties in search of food, water, or shelter. Wood piles, rock walls, overgrown vegetation, sheds, and debris piles provide ideal hiding places.
Where on the Body Do Rattlesnakes Usually Bite?The location of a rattlesnake bite often reveals how the encounter occurred.
Feet and AnklesThe majority of rattlesnake bites occur on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. These bites typically happen when someone accidentally steps too close to a snake or walks past a snake hidden in grass, brush, or leaf litter.
Hands and FingersMany serious rattlesnake bites occur on the hands and fingers. These incidents often happen when a person attempts to:

• Pick up a rattlesnake
• Move a rattlesnake
• Kill a rattlesnake
• Take a close-up photograph
• Reach into an area where a snake is hiding

Wildlife professionals frequently emphasize that handling rattlesnakes is one of the most preventable causes of rattlesnake bites.
Lower Arms and Legs
Less commonly, bites occur on the arms or calves when a person disturbs a rattlesnake hiding under logs, rocks, outdoor furniture, or stored materials.
How Could Many of These Bites Have Been Avoided?
Most rattlesnake bites are preventable. In fact, rattlesnakes generally prefer to avoid human contact whenever possible.
Stay on Established Trails
When hiking, remain on designated paths whenever possible. Avoid walking through tall grass, dense brush, or areas where visibility is limited.
Watch Where You Place Your Hands
Never reach into:

• Rock crevices
• Wood piles
• Brush piles
• Under outdoor furniture
• Areas beneath sheds or decks

Always look first.
Do Not Attempt to Handle a Rattlesnake
Many bites occur when people try to move or kill a rattlesnake themselves. Even a seemingly calm rattlesnake can strike with incredible speed.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
When hiking or working outdoors in rattlesnake habitat, wear:

• Sturdy boots
• Long pants
• Closed-toe shoes

These simple precautions can reduce the risk of a serious bite.
Keep Your Property Maintained
Homeowners can reduce rattlesnake activity by:

• Removing debris piles
• Trimming tall grass
• Eliminating rodent populations
• Keeping firewood elevated off the ground
• Sealing openings beneath structures
  
  
  

What Should You Do If You Find a Rattlesnake on Your Property?
If you discover a rattlesnake in your yard:

1. Remain calm.
2. Keep children and pets away from the area.
3. Do not attempt to move or kill the snake.
4. Maintain visual contact from a safe distance if possible.
5. Contact a professional rattlesnake removal specialist immediately.

Time is often critical when a rattlesnake is located near homes, play areas, patios, pet runs, or entryways. A trained wildlife professional can safely remove and relocate the snake while minimizing risk to people, pets, and the snake itself.


Final Thoughts
The increase in rattlesnake bites reported across California during 2026 highlights the importance of awareness and prevention. Most rattlesnake bites occur when people accidentally surprise a snake or attempt to handle one. By staying alert, respecting wildlife, and contacting a professional when a rattlesnake is found near a home, many of these incidents can be prevented.
If you find a rattlesnake on your property in Napa, Sonoma, Solano, Marin, or surrounding areas, professional removal is often the safest solution for both people and wildlife.

What To Do If You Find a Rattlesnake in Your Backyard in Napa ValleyStay Calm and Keep Your DistanceFinding a rattlesnake in your backyard can be alarming, but the most important thing to remember is not to panic. Rattlesnakes are defensive animals and generally prefer to avoid people. Most bites occur when someone attempts to handle, capture, or kill the snake. Give the snake plenty of space and keep it in sight from a safe distance. 
Bring Children and Pets IndoorsDogs are especially vulnerable to rattlesnake bites because they often investigate snakes out of curiosity. Immediately bring pets and children inside and keep them away from the area until the snake has left or been safely removed. 
Do Not Attempt to Remove the Snake YourselfMany rattlesnake bites happen when homeowners try to move or kill a snake. Even experienced outdoorsmen can be bitten. The safest option is to leave the snake alone and contact a professional rattlesnake removal specialist. 
Watch the Snake From a Safe DistanceIf possible, keep an eye on the snake so you can direct the removal specialist to its location. Many snakes disappear into landscaping, wood piles, rock walls, or under decks before help arrives.
Call a Professional Rattlesnake Removal ServiceA trained rattlesnake removal specialist can safely capture and relocate the snake while minimizing risk to people, pets, and the animal itself.
How to Reduce Future Rattlesnake EncountersHomeowners can make their property less attractive to rattlesnakes by:

• Controlling rodent populations
• Keeping grass trimmed
• Removing brush piles and debris
• Eliminating hiding spots around structures
• Installing rattlesnake-resistant fencing where appropriate

These measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of future encounters. 
Rattlesnakes Are Common Throughout Napa ValleyRattlesnakes are frequently encountered in Napa, St. Helena, Calistoga, Yountville, Angwin, and surrounding communities, especially during warm spring and summer months. Vineyards, open space, creek corridors, and rural residential properties provide ideal habitat for Northern Pacific Rattlesnakes.
Need Rattlesnake Removal in Napa Valley?If you discover a rattlesnake on your property, keep a safe distance and contact a professional removal specialist. Prompt removal can help keep your family, guests, and pets safe while ensuring the snake is handled appropriately.

Working in wildlife removal means you never know when the next call is going to come in. Recently, I received a call from a concerned homeowner in Napa, California, while I was waiting to get my hair cut.
The client told me she had discovered a large rattlesnake sitting on one of her patio lounge chairs. Understandably, she was alarmed and wanted the snake removed as quickly as possible.
Since I was only about 12 minutes away, I decided to leave before my haircut and head straight to her property. Within 15 minutes, I arrived at the home and began assessing the situation.
Sure enough, the rattlesnake was exactly where the homeowner said it would be—coiled comfortably on the patio lounge chair. Fortunately, the snake was calm and not behaving aggressively. Using my professional snake tongs, I carefully and gently secured the rattlesnake and safely transferred it into my snake bucket.
Once the snake was safely contained, the homeowner could finally relax knowing her patio was safe again. The entire removal went smoothly, and I charged my standard minimum service fee for the call.
Encounters like this are a good reminder that rattlesnakes can show up in unexpected places, especially during warmer months when they are actively searching for food, water, shade, or a comfortable place to rest. Patio furniture, landscaping features, and other sheltered areas can sometimes become temporary hiding spots.
If you discover a rattlesnake on your property, the safest thing to do is keep your distance, keep pets and family members away from the area, and contact a qualified wildlife professional for assistance.
Every snake removal is different, but this call serves as a perfect example of how quickly a routine day can turn into a wildlife rescue mission.

​Friday mornings can be unpredictable in the wildlife removal business, and this call was a perfect example.
At approximately 10:00 AM on a Friday, I received a call from a property manager regarding one of her vacation rental properties in Sonoma. The home was occupied by guests, and they had discovered a rattlesnake coiled beneath an outdoor patio table. Understandably, they were concerned and wanted the snake removed as quickly as possible.
At the time of the call, I was about 30 minutes away. I assured the property manager that I would head over immediately and asked if the guests could safely keep an eye on the snake from a distance until I arrived.
Traffic and road conditions added a few extra minutes to the trip, but I arrived at the property within 45 minutes of receiving the call. After letting myself through the gate, I made my way to the backyard, where a group of concerned guests was waiting.
The rattlesnake was exactly where they said it would be—coiled quietly beneath a small patio table. What made the situation particularly concerning was the location. Had someone sat down at the table without noticing the snake, their feet would have been only inches away from it.
Upon inspection, I determined that it was a young rattlesnake, likely around one year old. Although smaller than an adult, juvenile rattlesnakes should always be treated with caution and respect.
Using professional snake-handling equipment, I carefully and safely picked up the snake and placed it into my secure transport bucket. The removal was completed without incident, and the guests were relieved to know they could safely enjoy the outdoor space again.
After removing the rattlesnake from the property, I charged only my minimum service fee. In situations involving occupied vacation rentals, quick response times are essential to protect both guests and property owners, and I'm always happy to help when wildlife unexpectedly shows up.
This incident serves as a good reminder that rattlesnakes can occasionally be found in backyards, patios, and landscaped areas throughout Sonoma County—especially during the warmer months. Before sitting down outdoors, it's always a good idea to take a quick look around, particularly in areas where wildlife may seek shade or shelter.
If you discover a rattlesnake on your property, keep a safe distance, do not attempt to handle it yourself, and contact a qualified professional for assistance.

Recently, I received a call from homeowners in Benicia who had spotted a rattlesnake moving across their backyard. The snake eventually disappeared beneath a log along the edge of their property, leaving the homeowners concerned about the safety of their family and pets.
After gathering the address, I determined that I was approximately 28 minutes away. I advised the homeowners to keep a safe distance from the snake and, if possible, maintain visual contact with its location until I arrived. This helps prevent the snake from moving into a more difficult-to-access area and allows for a quicker, safer removal.
Due to traffic and travel time, I arrived at the property about 32 minutes later. Fortunately, the rattlesnake had remained in the same location beneath the log. After assessing the situation, I was able to safely capture the snake using professional snake tongs and place it securely into my snake transport bucket.
Because the removal was straightforward and the snake had remained visible and accessible, I charged only my minimum service fee for the capture and relocation. Once secured, the rattlesnake was relocated to appropriate habitat away from residential areas where it could continue playing its important role in the local ecosystem.
Encounters like this highlight the importance of giving snakes plenty of space and calling a professional when a venomous snake is found on your property. Attempting to handle a rattlesnake yourself can be extremely dangerous. In this case, the homeowners did exactly the right thing by keeping an eye on the snake from a safe distance and contacting a professional for assistance.
If you discover a rattlesnake on your property in Benicia or anywhere in Solano County, remain calm, keep children and pets away from the area, and contact a qualified wildlife professional for safe removal and relocation.