Experts Share Their Thoughts On Why Rattlesnakes Are Biting So Many People This Spring

Whenever you venture out into the wilderness, you need to be aware of your surroundings. While hiking can be relaxing, it can also prove to be treacherous. Getting caught in unpredictable weather, tripping over tree roots, and encountering wildlife can all make your hiking adventure less than ideal. Luckily, most times, people are prepared for such encounters. What people haven’t been prepared for, however, is the staggering number of rattlesnake incidents this year. Now, experts are sharing their opinions on why rattlesnakes are biting so many people this spring.

Why Are Rattlesnakes Biting So Many People This Year?

There have been numerous reports of rattlesnake bites in the past month, with six alone occurring in California. Backpacker shared that the Western states “have recorded a higher-than-usual number of venomous snakebites so far in 2026—and hikers and other trail users are experiencing the brunt of it.”

So we know that many people are suffering from rattlesnake bites, and a few of them have had unfortunate outcomes. The big question remains, why? Why are rattlesnakes biting so many people this year compared to previous years?

Emily Taylor, a professor of biological sciences at California Polytechnic State University and the founder of Central Coast Snake Services (CCSS), might have the answers. When speaking to Backpacker, Taylor attributed the rise in encounters to the rise in temperatures.

2026 has been unusually warm thus far, and the professor argued that the frequent heatwaves may have increased the appearance of these fearsome snakes. She said, “March did have a heatwave, and everything was kind of accelerated.” To further prove her point, she drew attention to the fact that plants and rodents have both been blooming early as well.

Should We Be Concerned?

Naturally, people have become concerned with the rising number of encounters of rattlesnakes biting people. Yet, Taylor argues that despite the climbing encounters, there is no reason to fear. Instead, she suggests that the unfortunate few deaths from such events are just “a statistical anomaly.”

She elaborated on her point by explaining, “That can happen [referring to death from rattlesnake bites] occasionally. It’s not because rattlesnakes are getting more aggressive or their venom is getting worse, or any of these rumors you’re seeing going around.” Instead, Taylor chalks it up to “a tragic coincidence.”

Out of fear, hikers have begun trying to attack and kill rattlesnakes that they see on the trails. The thought process is that if we exterminate the snakes, then hikers have nothing to fear. Taylor strongly advises against this for two reasons. First, it is not in the best interest of the snakes and the environment. Second, it can have drastic consequences for the hikers.

“All they’re doing is harming wildlife and also putting themselves at risk,” she argued, explaining that several hikers had been bitten in the past in their attempt to harm the snakes. Instead, the better thing to do is to remain vigilant, constantly be aware of your surroundings, and always wear the proper clothing and gear.

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