It’s Not Your Imagination: There Really Are More Rattlesnake Reports in Arizona This Year

I'll be honest, I wasn't expecting to come face-to-face with a rattlesnake on my own porch last week.

Fortunately, it was my dogs who noticed it before I did. They began barking loudly, and when I went to find out what the noise was about, there it was—coiled up by the porch, complete with the rattler.

a close up of a snake on a black background

The fact that no one was hurt is the main point, though it was certainly one of those occasions that makes your heart race. If you've got the impression that you're hearing more rattlesnake stories this year, then you're probably not imagining it.

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Arizona's Snake Season Got an Early Start

Experts at Arizona Fish & Game say Arizona's warmer-than-average weather helped kick off rattlesnake season earlier than usual this year.

AGFD cautions residents as early as February that above-average temperatures could “result in increased snake activity and encounters throughout the state” and tells people to stay alert, particularly when working outdoors in the early morning and in the evening.

white and brown short coated dog lying on green grass during daytime

Veterinarians throughout the state are also advising pet owners to take extra care. "At the moment we are noticing an increasing number of dogs being bitten by rattlesnakes since all the monsoon rain has caused weeds to grow, providing snakes with excellent places to hide," says Dr. Bone from Sierra Animal Hospital. "Keep an eye on your pets and get the weeds removed as quickly as possible."

RELATED: When Do Rattlesnakes and Scorpions Wake Up in Arizona?

More Sightings Around Southeastern Arizona

Here in Cochise County, residents have also been reporting more rattlesnake sightings during the spring and summer months.

A rattlesnake bite in Tombstone earlier this summer is another reminder; snake activity has been really high this year, and it’s important to be careful when spending time outside.

READ: Is Killing a Rattlesnake In Arizona Legal?

A rattlesnake camouflaged in dry grass and wild plants

Staying Alert Pays Off

That rattlesnake on my porch didn't ruin my week, but it definitely got my attention. My dogs let us know it was there, and they went crazy barking at it. If they’d gotten closer, the outcome could’ve been devastating.

brown and black snake on brown rock

The silver lining is that I'm now hypervigilant whenever I'm outside, especially during the cooler morning and evening hours when snakes are more active.

After last week's surprise, you can bet I'm checking around the porch before stepping outside. And judging by the number of reports across Arizona this year, that's not a bad habit to have.