Rattlesnakes are present in Colorado. Understanding their behaviors and habitats can significantly reduce the risk of unwanted interactions. With adherence to safety guidelines, people can safely share outdoor spaces with these animals.
Colorado’s Rattlesnake Residents
Colorado is home to three species of rattlesnakes, with the Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) being the most widespread and commonly encountered. This species grows to about 3 to 4 feet in length. Prairie Rattlesnakes have varied coloration, appearing as greenish-gray, olive green, or brown, with distinctive dark blotches bordered by lighter scales along their backs that turn into rings near the tail. They possess a broad, triangular head and the characteristic rattle at the end of their tail.
The state also hosts the Massasauga Rattlesnake and the Midget Faded Rattlesnake. Massasaugas are smaller, ranging from 18 to 30 inches, with a grey base color and rows of dark, rounded blotches. They are primarily found in the sandy terrain of southeastern Colorado. The Midget Faded Rattlesnake, found mainly in western Colorado along the Green and Colorado River basins, is also smaller, around 2 feet long, and its color can be pinkish, pale brown, or yellow-brown, with markings that fade with age.
Understanding Their Habitats
Rattlesnakes occupy diverse environments across Colorado, thriving in areas below 9,500 feet in elevation. Prairie Rattlesnakes are found throughout the eastern plains, foothills, grasslands, semidesert shrublands, and even into montane woodlands. They are common in areas like the Colorado River basin and the Rocky Mountain foothills.
These snakes frequently utilize rocky outcrops, stream crossings, and ledges for shelter and basking. During cooler periods in spring and fall, rattlesnakes bask on warm surfaces such as pavement, rocks, or trails to regulate their body temperature. In hotter summer months, they become more active during the evening or night to avoid extreme heat, seeking shade under bushes, rocks, or logs during the day. They emerge from winter dens in late March or early April and remain active until mid-fall.
Encountering Rattlesnakes Safely
Encountering a rattlesnake requires a calm and cautious approach. If a rattlesnake is heard or seen, freeze in place to locate the animal and avoid moving closer. Rattlesnakes use their rattle as a warning sign, indicating a perceived threat is too close. Establish a distance of at least five feet between yourself and the snake, moving slowly back the way you came if possible.
Preventative measures reduce the likelihood of an encounter. Wearing sturdy, ankle-high footwear and long pants provides protection, as most bites occur on the feet and ankles. Stay on marked trails and avoid wandering into tall grass, dense bushes, or rocky areas where snakes might hide. When hiking, remain aware of surroundings by avoiding headphones, allowing for detection of a snake’s rattle.
Look carefully before stepping or placing hands, especially around logs, rocks, or into holes. Supervise pets by keeping them on a leash, as curious dogs are often bitten on the face or snout. If a rattlesnake is encountered, never attempt to handle, provoke, or kill it, as many bites occur when individuals try to interact with the snake. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services.