Arizona Remains Rattlesnake Capital ofโค the U.S., Experts Say
PHOENIX – As warmer weather arrives, โฃArizonaโ residents and visitors โฃshould be aware the โคstate continuesโค to hold โtheโค distinction of โคhaving the highestโข diversity of rattlesnake species in โthe nation. With 13 distinct kinds ofโ rattlesnakes calling Arizona home, โคencounters are increasinglyโ common from May through October, as the reptiles emerge from hibernation. โค
The Arizona ridge-nosed rattlesnake isโค officially โคrecognized as the state reptile, underscoringโ the significantโ role these creatures play in โthe Arizona ecosystem. While rattlesnakesโ have a reputation forโข being dangerous, experts emphasize โขthey typically onlyโ attack when feeling threatened. Common areas for potential encounters include theโ Sonoran Desert, Chiricahua Mountains, โSuperstition Mountains, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, โคand theโค Grand Canyon region,โฃ withโ lower elevations generally seeing higherโข concentrations.
Rattlesnakes are most โฃactive during the warmerโฃ months, typically hibernating duringโ the colder seasons. Texas โขfollows Arizona withโข 10 different species of โrattlesnakes. Authorities advise caution while hiking or spending time outdoors, and recommend being mindful of surroundings.