Snakes Popping Up in Boise Area
As the heat increases here in the Boise, Idaho area so do the number of snakes. They’re most active when the temperatures are between 70 - 85°F. This means that we need to be on the lookout during the early mornings and late afternoons.
If you’re a hiker and who doesn’t like to take a quick trip up Table Rock or Camel’s Back, you definitely need to watch where you step. Here are a few precautions to take when you go hiking here in the Treasure Valley.
Wear boots and long pants (This will help stop the venom if they bite)
Stay on trails and away from underbrush or tall weeds
Do not touch or disturb a snake even if it appears dead
Always look for concealed snakes before picking up rocks, sticks, or branches
Never hike alone
Teach children to respect snakes and leave them alone
I remember doing the opposite of all this growing up. It’s a miracle I wasn’t bitten. As kids, we want to play and antagonize and that is absolutely the WORST thing to do when seeing a snake. Especially a venomous snake and most of us can’t tell the difference. I know I can’t.
There are 12 different species of snakes native to Idaho
Western Rattlesnake – They’re most common in rocky areas and they can swim so they’re sometimes found near water. This is a poisonous snake.
North American Racer – Usually out during the day, in dry terrain so YES, you’ll find these in the Boise Foothills. They’re fast and have a gliding motion which is why they’re called a Racer.
Gopher Snake – They’re also known as Bull Snakes. Very common in the Boise area and they’re often mistaken for rattlesnakes because they hiss and shake their tales when threatened. They do bite but are not poisonous.
Terrestrial Garter Snake – These guys LOVE the water. If you see a snake near water in Idaho it’s most likely a Terrestrial Garter Snake. They’re greenish brown with small black patches and a pale yellow stripe down their spine. They usually eat small fish and tadpoles.
Common Garter Snake – They’re less common than the Terrestrial so it’s kind of weird we call them Common. They love the water as well and are a little more brightly colored.
Northern Rubber Boa – They live in the forested, rocky areas and most of the time they’re underground. They move slowly and have a blunt tail which almost looks like another head.
Ring-Necked Snake – This very rare species is a small snake that only gets up to about 20 inches long. They’re gray with a bright orange belly.
Desert Night Snake – These guys do have venom they’ll release when biting but the positive for us is that the venom is not harmful to humans. Their venom is usually used for lizards which they eat at night. They live in the desert and are also kind of small only getting up to 20 inches as a full grown adult.
Western Ground Snake – This snake is nocturnal. They’re mostly found near the Snake River in Owyhee County.
Long-Nosed Snake – This is another one that you’ll usually find along the Snake River and if you see one, you’re in the minority. They’re very rare. They’re known for their black and white speckled bands.
Striped Whip Snake – They have large eyes and hunt during the day. Their food of choice is insects, lizards, and sometimes smaller snakes. They’re related to the North American Racer.
Prairie Rattlesnake – You can find these guys primarily in Central Idaho. A lot of people thought these were Western Rattlers but they’re not. It’s a different species.
Please be careful out there. These beautiful creatures are part of what makes Idaho so unique and gorgeous. Take the proper precautions when heading out and enjoy our little oasis here in the Treasure Valley.
Photo Credit: Live Science