Fremont County reports rattlesnake bite

FREMONT COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- Western Fremont County already had a rattlesnake bite report this year.

The Fremont County Sheriff's Office says with warmer weather, people should expect to see snakes out more.

Officials suggest the following tips in staying safe:

• Keep grass and weeds mowed around your property
• Keep your yard clean, free from woodpiles and debris
• When hiking or walking, wear at least ankle-high boots, thick socks, and loose-fitting pants
• Stay on trails, away from tall grass

The Fremont County Sheriff's Office says it's important to recognize the sound of a rattlesnake. They say if you hear a rattling, stay away and don't make any sudden moves.

However, rattles can also break off, be malformed, or silent. Officials say not to rely solely on the presence or absence of the rattler as the only form of identification.

Rattle snakes can be recognized by the following:

• Flat, triangular-shaped heads
• Openings between the nostrils and eyes
• Hooded and elliptical pupils
• The rattle at the end of the rattlesnake's tail is made of modified scales
• Young rattlesnakes often only have a few parts of the rattler formed, they are still venomous

Learn more about snake safety here.