Commerce City police assisted in safely relocating a rattlesnake back to its natural habitat this month after a local resident discovered the venomous snake in their driveway.
Body camera footage shared in a Commerce City Police Department social media post shows the officer using a catch pole to carefully handle the rattlesnake, which was clearly agitated and attempting to strike as it was moved to a nearby field.
According to police spokesperson Joanna Small, there were no injuries during the encounter that took place on the evening of May 22. However, a recent incident involving a snake bite occurred on a local trail.
“We’ve had two recent incidents where individuals have had direct contact with rattlesnakes,” Small stated. “It’s important for people to be mindful that these snakes are present in Colorado.”
Colorado is home to three species of rattlesnakes, known for the distinctive rattling sound created by their tails to warn off potential threats. While these snakes typically avoid humans, getting too close can result in a painful bite that delivers venom capable of causing damage to muscle tissue and skin.
Individuals hiking on Colorado trails are advised to watch where they step and reach to avoid provoking rattlesnakes. In case of a suspected snake bite, it is recommended to call 911, as stated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
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