Encountering Poisonous and Venomous Arizona Animals: Precautions
- Wear long pants and lace-up leather shoes or boots that cover the ankles.
- Remain alert for snakes. Be extra cautious when temperatures stay over 82 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime. South-facing slopes and rocky areas are places where snake encounters are more likely to occur.
- Don’t handle, touch or play with snakes or Gila monsters. Walk around them if you can. The bite range of a snake is between ¼ to ½ the snake’s body length. Snakes do not have to be coiled to strike!
- Step on top of rocks or logs to get a clear view of what’s on the other side before stepping down.
- Don’t place your hands where you can’t see. Exercise caution when gathering firewood or moving rocks to make a fire ring.
- Check and shake out bedding, clothing and footwear before use.
- Zip up tent openings when not in use and during the night.
- Be aware that during the hot summer months, rattlesnakes and most other venomous creatures are most active at night.