Posted Thursday, June 12, 2003

Layton man might have died from rattlesnake bite

Layton — A 31-year-old Layton died on June 3 after being bitten by what might have been a small rattlesnake in a yard in west Layton. Rattlesnake bites in Utah are rare and deaths from rattlesnake bites are extremely rare. There were four known rattlesnake fatalities in Utah, three during the 1930s and one during the 1980s.

As the drought continues in Utah, Division of Wildlife Resources officials have noticed an increase in reports of wildlife "coming down" from the mountains to find water and food. In some cases, wildlife are finding good habitat cover in overgrown yards and junk piles.

Homeowners are encouraged to be aware of the wildlife that are in their area and that might be attracted to their yards. In most cases, people purposely attract wildlife, especially birds, to their yards. This is positive and enjoyable for people and is also beneficial for the birds. However, there are some cases when wildlife can create a public safety threat. In all cases, people are reminded that wildlife can be dangerous.

Larry Davis, a DWR conservation officer in Davis County, has handled urban wildlife situations for decades. He offers some sound advise for dealing with urban wildlife.

"Whether it's a dry year or not, people are going to have wildlife in their yards. Animals are going to wander through, whether it's a raccoon, a moose or a cougar," Davis said. "Whether it's a squirrel, bird or whatever, the first thing we tell people is to leave them alone. Let them go their way and you go your way. If you want, stand back at a safe distance and watch them, observe them, look at and enjoy them. If it's a large animal, or an animal that presents some type of a public safety problem, such as a rattlesnake, moose or cougar, please give us a call or call your local police department who'll notify us and we'll relocate it to suitable habitat."

Those recreating in the Uintas this year are reminded that the area is frequented by black bears. The drought and habitat loss from last year's forest fires may affect bear movements. Campers are encouraged to follow the preventative measures that are posted at all the campgrounds in the Uintas.

Anglers, hikers and campers are also reminded to pay attention to cool, grassy areas along stream sides that rattlesnakes may visit for relief from the hot, dry weather.