It's Snake Season: Proceed With Caution

Spring is here, and so are the snakes.

Maria Rohr and her family came across this Diamondback rattlesnake on a hike March 23 in the hills above Menifee Road and Simpson Road. Residents are cautioned to be aware of their surroundings, avoid contact with snakes and report the presence of a snake to animal control if necessary.

Animal Friends of the Valleys will respond if a snake is discovered on private property or in a public area where it may pose a danger. Maintain a visual on the snake from a safe distance to pinpoint location and call 951-674-0618, ext. 222 or 223, according to a spokesperson from AFV.

A toddler was bitten by a snake presumed to be a rattlesnake March 14 near Lake Skinner in Murrieta and was hospitalized.