As the Southern California sun climbs higher, so does the activity of local wildlife, particularly of the reptilian sort. The Irvine Police Department has issued a public service announcement that with the warmer weather, residents might receive unwanted visits from the local snake population. As detailed by the Irvine Police Department, "only venomous danger noodle native to Irvine is a rattlesnake." Residents are urged to remain calm and vigilant, as these creatures start appearing in places that are less than ideal for human encounters.
According to the Irvine Police Department post, the area is also a habitat for various non-venomous snakes including gopher snakes, kingsnakes, and coachwhips. These snakes, while potentially startling, provide natural rodent control and are not considered a threat to humans. The police highlighted that kingsnakes and coachwhips are beneficial for another reason, they, can eat rattlesnakes, thereby naturally curbing the presence of the venomous species.
Irvine authorities are advising residents not to panic if they encounter a rattlesnake. Instead, they suggest grabbing a photo for social media – because if it's not posted, did it y feel threatened," comparing them to "your anti-social neighbors."
