Heat wave in California linked to surge in rattlesnake encounters

A March heat wave in Southern California has coincided with increased rattlesnake sightings, including a nearly three-foot rattler found swimming in a San Diego County pool; wildlife handlers and officials report earlier and more frequent activity as snakes emerge from hibernation.

A strong early-season heat wave in Southern California has coincided with a rise in rattlesnake sightings and related removals. In San Diego County, a nearly three-foot rattlesnake was found in a backyard pool and removed by a professional snake wrangler, according to the report. Local snake handlers and wildlife officials say encounters have increased as snakes emerge earlier from hibernation during unseasonably warm weather. The National Weather Service warned the region of a dangerous heat wave with record-breaking temperatures this week. Reported facts: - A San Diego County homeowner discovered a nearly three-foot rattlesnake in a pool; a veteran snake wrangler removed the animal and posted the rescue on social media. - Snake handlers and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported an uptick in sightings as snakes become active earlier in the season. - The National Weather Service announced a dangerous heat wave for Southern California, with temperatures expected well above normal and warnings about heat-related risks. Summary: The early-season heat wave has been accompanied by more rattlesnake encounters in residential and recreational areas of Southern California. Undetermined at this time.