In the heart of California’s breathtaking Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, an adrenaline-seeking mountain biker named Manuel Altamirano found himself in a thrilling and potentially dangerous encounter with a rattlesnake.
A Surprising Crash
As Altamirano and his companions cycled along a trail, disaster struck. Altamirano lost control of his bike and tumbled into the dirt, landing right next to a coiled rattlesnake. “I’ve seen countless snakes over the years, but I’ve never crashed on top of one,” said Altamirano, still shaken but amused by the incident. “It all happened so quickly.”
Face-to-Snout
In a heart-stopping moment, Altamirano found himself face-to-snout with the venomous reptile. However, to his surprise, the rattlesnake seemed remarkably calm. “I thought for sure it would strike,” said Altamirano. “But it just kind of slid away.”
Know the Risks
Altamirano’s run-in highlights the importance of rattlesnake awareness during the season that typically runs from April to September in the San Diego area. According to the San Diego Humane Society, hikers and bikers should always keep pets on leashes, pay attention to the trail ahead, know where to seek medical attention if bitten, and respect the inherent danger poser by snakes.
Prevention and Preparedness
To minimize the risk of rattlesnake encounters, hikers are advised to stay on main trails, avoid dense vegetation, be mindful when crossing fallen rocks or logs, and wear protective gear such as pants and closed-toe shoes. Some trails may even offer rattlesnake warning systems, such as signs or alerts.
In Case of a Bite
If you encounter a rattlesnake, remain calm and follow these steps recommended by County of San Diego Parks and Recreation:
- Stay still and don’t panic.
- Immobilize the bitten extremity.
- Wash the wound with soap and water.
- Remove any jewelry or tight-fitting clothing.
- Call 911 immediately for emergency medical assistance.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
