Helen Schuler inviting community to learn about Snake Safety in Lethbridge

Jun 1, 2019 | 8:01 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – As rattlesnakes continue to move to different areas in Lethbridge, moving further from their hibernacula, the Friends of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre Society want to make sure the community knows how to live with snakes.

That’s the title of a presentation they’ll be hosting on Saturday, June 1 at 2 p.m. at Helen Schuler Nature Centre which will feature local snake expert and naturalist Ken Moore.

Moore will provide an overview of the snakes of Lethbridge, snake behaviour, what to do if you encounter a snake, and how we can live together with snakes. Audience members are invited to ask questions and get advice on how to protect their family from rattlesnakes. The goal of this presentation is to provide more information to anyone that may be uneasy by the presence of rattlesnakes in Lethbridge.

Rattlesnake sightings are often in the Southwest area of the city including Paradise Canyon, RiverStone, SunRidge, the University of Lethbridge, Popson Park and Cottonwood Park. However, they have occasionally been spotted throughout the city.

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Rattlesnakes are not aggressive and given a choice would rather retreat than strike. When walking in areas known for rattlesnake sightings, keep dogs on leash and controlled. Please do not run over rattlesnakes on the road or bike trails. If you encounter a rattlesnake, walk away from it slowly. Be sure to look where you are walking, just in case there is another one nearby. Give the snake plenty of room to escape from you.

It’s illegal to kill or harm any snakes including rattlesnakes, possess their parts or damage denning areas. There are significant fines and charges for killing a rattlesnake in Alberta. Rattlesnakes may be at risk due to population declines and loss of habitat.

If you require a rattlesnake to be removed from an urban or recreational area, you’re asked to call the Rattlesnake Call Line at 403-332-6806.

by Aaron Mahoney