Vtec44
10-20-2007, 03:30 PM
It's important for all of us to remember that being in the wild means that we are also in the habitat of other wild animals. While most are harmless, Black Bears and Northern Pacific Rattlesnakes can be deadly and are very common at many campsites throughout California.
http://www.calpoison.org/public/rattler.html
Northern Pacific Rattlesnake
HABITAT: Pacific slope from British Columbia to California.
RANGES: West of the Rockies south to San Luis Obispo woodland, scrub areas, prairie, grasslands, south-facing outcroppings with deep crevices, rodent-populated areas.
CHARACTERISTICS: From inoffensive to easily provoked, this poisonous "pit" viper can vary in size and temperament. Common characteristics of mature "rattlers" are a powerful body that can reach a length of 5.5 feet; a thin neck; a triangular, or heart-shaped head; facial pits; hooded eyes with elliptical pupils; and a tail rattle, often called "buttons." (caution: tail rattles can be lost or may not yet be present in young snakes).
The rattlesnake has an acute sense of smell and an ability to sense temperatures higher than its own surroundings. Skin color may vary from dark gray, olive, yellowish-brown, to brown or black, with hexagonal, oval, or nearly circular blotches with well-defined light borders.
Generally active from April through September, the rattlesnake may emerge earlier and range later in warm weather. It is generally inactive or in a state of hibernation from November through February. During the spring the snake prowls in the morning and late afternoon. During summer the snake alternately basks and seeks shade. During the hottest months, the snake becomes nocturnal, seeking mice, voles, gophers, and even cottontail rabbits. This species mate in spring and bear young anytime from August through October. Baby rattlesnakes are just as poisonous as adult snakes.
If threatened, the rattlesnake may coil, rattle, and raise its upper body, appearing ready to strike while actually backing slowly away with its lower body. However, if surprised, it may lunge up to several feet, striking without any warning behavior whatsoever.
Not every strike delivers venom. Occasionally the snake will inflict what is called a "dry bite." Regardless, every rattlesnake bite needs medical attention.
TREATMENT: Severe rattlesnake envenomation symptoms can be life-threatening and must be treated with antivenin. Antivenin is a prescription item that is not available to the general public because it is derived from a horse serum which frequently causes major allergic reactions. It is given intravenously along with fluids. Numerous laboratory tests may be required, as well as a tetanus update, if needed. Although possible allergic reaction, infection, and shock may develop, the majority of rattlesnake bites are successfully treated with as few as 3 or 4 days of hospitalization.
INITIAL FIRST AID: Because most Californians live in rattlesnake country, every family member should be made aware of the following snakebite emergency plan of action.
If you are less than one hour from the nearest hospital emergency room, initial treatment is relatively simple:
DO try to calm the victim
DO gently wash the bite area with soap and water
DO remove any watches, rings, etc. which may constrict swelling
DO apply a cold, wet cloth over the bite if possible
DO transport safely to the nearest emergency facility for further treatment
There are also several DONT'S to remember:
DON'T apply a tourniquet
DON'T pack the bite area in ice or ice water
DON'T cut the wound with a knife or razor
DON'T suck out the venom by mouth
DON'T let the victim drink alcohol
PREVENTION: While some bites result from deliberate attempts to harass or capture a rattlesnake, many bites result from surprise encounters, with hands, feet and ankles as the most common sites. Many snakebites can be prevented by using a few common sense rules:
Identify rattlesnake areas before visiting. Be aware that they are not always confined to rural areas. Rattlesnakes have been found near urban areas, in river or lakeside parks and golf courses, for example.
* Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking in the rough. Always wear hiking boots.
* Stay on paths and trails. Avoid tall grass, weeds, and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide.
* Use a walking stick when hiking. If you come across a snake, let it strike the stick instead of you.
* Always look for concealed snakes before picking up rocks, sticks, or firewood.
* Always check carefully around stumps or logs before sitting down. Shake out sleeping bags before use.
* When climbing always look before putting your hands in a new location. Snakes can climb walls, trees, and rocks. They are frequently found at high altitudes.
* Never grab "sticks" or "branches" while swimming in lakes and rivers. Remember rattlesnakes are excellent swimmers.
* Baby rattlesnakes are just as poisonous as their parents. They can and do bite. Leave them alone!
* Never hike alone. Always take along a buddy who can get help in an emergency.
* Learn basic lifesaving methods. The Red Cross and various hospitals offer regular classes.
* Don't handle a freshly killed snake; you can still be bitten.
* Don't tease a snake to see how far it can strike.
* Don't keep rattlesnakes as pets. Many bites occur when people, usually intoxicated males in your 20's, tease their "pet" rattlers.
* Do give rattlesnakes the right-of-way.
* Teach children early to respect snakes and to leave them alone. Curious children who pick up snakes are often bitten.
If you or a member of your family have the misfortune to be bitten, remember your plan. Calm the victim and transport to the nearest emergency facility for treatment. It is extremely unlikely for a Northern Pacific rattlesnake bite victim to die. Statistically speaking, more people actually die from bee or wasp sting reactions. With the right care, most people survive their bites quite well.
http://www.bebearawaresw.org/
Black Bears
Black Bears At A Glance
Black bears can be found across most of North America, whereas grizzly/brown bears are found only in the northwestern states, Alaska and western Canada. Black bears that reside in the Southwest primarily live in the pine forests and chaparral(brush) zones, and occasionally wander into lower elevations.
Colors: Black, brown, blond or cinnamon.
Size: Adults measure about 3 feet at shoulders and 5 to 6 feet when standing upright.
Weight: Adults weigh 125 to 425 pounds Males are generally larger than females.
Lifespan: Approximately 20 years for wild bears.
Eyesight: Similar to humans.
Sense of Smell: Excellent, can span miles.
Attributes: Very agile, climb trees well, good swimmers, and can run as fast as 35 mph.
Healthy wild black bears rely on berries, insects, vegetation, fish and carrion to survive. They generally mate during May and early June. They hibernate primarily due to lack of food, usually between November and April, though this varies. Healthy mothers produce 1 to 2 cubs every 2-3 years.
Camping in Bear country
* Always keep a clean camp.
* Use a designated camping area.
* Don't leave food out when not in use. Store it in bear-resistant storage unit, hard shelled vehicle or car trunk.
* Use bear-resistant trash receptacles.
* Set up tents with space between them.
* Keep pets on a leash.
* Keep your sleeping area, tent and sleeping bag free of food and odors.
* Don't sleep in clothes you cooked or food.
* Keep a flashlight and bear pepper spray readily available.
* Bears should never obtain human food, pet/livestock feeds, or garbage. Bears that receive these "food rewards" may become aggressive towards humans or cause property damage. To protect people and their property, these bears may have to be destroyed.
* Wild bears have a natural fear of humans and will attempt to avoid people and developed areas fed bears do not!
* Wild bears rely on natural foods such as berries and fish. Fed bears will abandon vital food sources for human foods and garbage!
* Wild bears quickly become conditioned to handouts and will teach their cubs to do the same.
* Wild bears fed along roads tend to stay near the road - increasing vehicle-animal accidents.
Hiking in Bear Country
* Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.
* Carry bear pepper spray.
* Read all signs at the trailhead.
* Hike in a group, and keep children close at hand.
* Make your presence known (call out).
* Hike during daylight hours & stay on the trail.
* Watch for bear signs: scat, claw marks, diggings, logs or stumps torn apart, etc.
* Avoid taking pets, they may attract bears to you.
Black Bear Encounters
* Black bears should always be considered unpredictable and potentially dangerous. A black bear will usually detect your presence and flee the area before you notice unless the bear has been conditioned to people and their foods.
* If a black bear is visible, but not close, alter your route so that you will move away from its area.
* If a black bear approaches, do not run. Remain calm, continue facing the bear and slowly back away. If the bear continues to approach, try to group together and pick up small children. Try to scare the bear away by shouting and acting aggressively.
* If a black bear attacks, it is suggested to fight back using everything in your power fists, sticks, rocks, and E.P.A. registered bear pepper spray.
Bear Pepper Spray
Bear Pepper Spray is not a substitution for following appropriate safety techniques.
* Bear pepper spray is not the same as personal defense spray, it must be E.P.A. registered.
* Bear pepper spray must contain 1.3%-2% capsaicin and related capsaicinoids. Suggested spray distance is at least 25 feet in a cloud pattern lasting 6 seconds or more.
http://www.calpoison.org/public/rattler.html
Northern Pacific Rattlesnake
HABITAT: Pacific slope from British Columbia to California.
RANGES: West of the Rockies south to San Luis Obispo woodland, scrub areas, prairie, grasslands, south-facing outcroppings with deep crevices, rodent-populated areas.
CHARACTERISTICS: From inoffensive to easily provoked, this poisonous "pit" viper can vary in size and temperament. Common characteristics of mature "rattlers" are a powerful body that can reach a length of 5.5 feet; a thin neck; a triangular, or heart-shaped head; facial pits; hooded eyes with elliptical pupils; and a tail rattle, often called "buttons." (caution: tail rattles can be lost or may not yet be present in young snakes).
The rattlesnake has an acute sense of smell and an ability to sense temperatures higher than its own surroundings. Skin color may vary from dark gray, olive, yellowish-brown, to brown or black, with hexagonal, oval, or nearly circular blotches with well-defined light borders.
Generally active from April through September, the rattlesnake may emerge earlier and range later in warm weather. It is generally inactive or in a state of hibernation from November through February. During the spring the snake prowls in the morning and late afternoon. During summer the snake alternately basks and seeks shade. During the hottest months, the snake becomes nocturnal, seeking mice, voles, gophers, and even cottontail rabbits. This species mate in spring and bear young anytime from August through October. Baby rattlesnakes are just as poisonous as adult snakes.
If threatened, the rattlesnake may coil, rattle, and raise its upper body, appearing ready to strike while actually backing slowly away with its lower body. However, if surprised, it may lunge up to several feet, striking without any warning behavior whatsoever.
Not every strike delivers venom. Occasionally the snake will inflict what is called a "dry bite." Regardless, every rattlesnake bite needs medical attention.
TREATMENT: Severe rattlesnake envenomation symptoms can be life-threatening and must be treated with antivenin. Antivenin is a prescription item that is not available to the general public because it is derived from a horse serum which frequently causes major allergic reactions. It is given intravenously along with fluids. Numerous laboratory tests may be required, as well as a tetanus update, if needed. Although possible allergic reaction, infection, and shock may develop, the majority of rattlesnake bites are successfully treated with as few as 3 or 4 days of hospitalization.
INITIAL FIRST AID: Because most Californians live in rattlesnake country, every family member should be made aware of the following snakebite emergency plan of action.
If you are less than one hour from the nearest hospital emergency room, initial treatment is relatively simple:
DO try to calm the victim
DO gently wash the bite area with soap and water
DO remove any watches, rings, etc. which may constrict swelling
DO apply a cold, wet cloth over the bite if possible
DO transport safely to the nearest emergency facility for further treatment
There are also several DONT'S to remember:
DON'T apply a tourniquet
DON'T pack the bite area in ice or ice water
DON'T cut the wound with a knife or razor
DON'T suck out the venom by mouth
DON'T let the victim drink alcohol
PREVENTION: While some bites result from deliberate attempts to harass or capture a rattlesnake, many bites result from surprise encounters, with hands, feet and ankles as the most common sites. Many snakebites can be prevented by using a few common sense rules:
Identify rattlesnake areas before visiting. Be aware that they are not always confined to rural areas. Rattlesnakes have been found near urban areas, in river or lakeside parks and golf courses, for example.
* Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking in the rough. Always wear hiking boots.
* Stay on paths and trails. Avoid tall grass, weeds, and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide.
* Use a walking stick when hiking. If you come across a snake, let it strike the stick instead of you.
* Always look for concealed snakes before picking up rocks, sticks, or firewood.
* Always check carefully around stumps or logs before sitting down. Shake out sleeping bags before use.
* When climbing always look before putting your hands in a new location. Snakes can climb walls, trees, and rocks. They are frequently found at high altitudes.
* Never grab "sticks" or "branches" while swimming in lakes and rivers. Remember rattlesnakes are excellent swimmers.
* Baby rattlesnakes are just as poisonous as their parents. They can and do bite. Leave them alone!
* Never hike alone. Always take along a buddy who can get help in an emergency.
* Learn basic lifesaving methods. The Red Cross and various hospitals offer regular classes.
* Don't handle a freshly killed snake; you can still be bitten.
* Don't tease a snake to see how far it can strike.
* Don't keep rattlesnakes as pets. Many bites occur when people, usually intoxicated males in your 20's, tease their "pet" rattlers.
* Do give rattlesnakes the right-of-way.
* Teach children early to respect snakes and to leave them alone. Curious children who pick up snakes are often bitten.
If you or a member of your family have the misfortune to be bitten, remember your plan. Calm the victim and transport to the nearest emergency facility for treatment. It is extremely unlikely for a Northern Pacific rattlesnake bite victim to die. Statistically speaking, more people actually die from bee or wasp sting reactions. With the right care, most people survive their bites quite well.
http://www.bebearawaresw.org/
Black Bears
Black Bears At A Glance
Black bears can be found across most of North America, whereas grizzly/brown bears are found only in the northwestern states, Alaska and western Canada. Black bears that reside in the Southwest primarily live in the pine forests and chaparral(brush) zones, and occasionally wander into lower elevations.
Colors: Black, brown, blond or cinnamon.
Size: Adults measure about 3 feet at shoulders and 5 to 6 feet when standing upright.
Weight: Adults weigh 125 to 425 pounds Males are generally larger than females.
Lifespan: Approximately 20 years for wild bears.
Eyesight: Similar to humans.
Sense of Smell: Excellent, can span miles.
Attributes: Very agile, climb trees well, good swimmers, and can run as fast as 35 mph.
Healthy wild black bears rely on berries, insects, vegetation, fish and carrion to survive. They generally mate during May and early June. They hibernate primarily due to lack of food, usually between November and April, though this varies. Healthy mothers produce 1 to 2 cubs every 2-3 years.
Camping in Bear country
* Always keep a clean camp.
* Use a designated camping area.
* Don't leave food out when not in use. Store it in bear-resistant storage unit, hard shelled vehicle or car trunk.
* Use bear-resistant trash receptacles.
* Set up tents with space between them.
* Keep pets on a leash.
* Keep your sleeping area, tent and sleeping bag free of food and odors.
* Don't sleep in clothes you cooked or food.
* Keep a flashlight and bear pepper spray readily available.
* Bears should never obtain human food, pet/livestock feeds, or garbage. Bears that receive these "food rewards" may become aggressive towards humans or cause property damage. To protect people and their property, these bears may have to be destroyed.
* Wild bears have a natural fear of humans and will attempt to avoid people and developed areas fed bears do not!
* Wild bears rely on natural foods such as berries and fish. Fed bears will abandon vital food sources for human foods and garbage!
* Wild bears quickly become conditioned to handouts and will teach their cubs to do the same.
* Wild bears fed along roads tend to stay near the road - increasing vehicle-animal accidents.
Hiking in Bear Country
* Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.
* Carry bear pepper spray.
* Read all signs at the trailhead.
* Hike in a group, and keep children close at hand.
* Make your presence known (call out).
* Hike during daylight hours & stay on the trail.
* Watch for bear signs: scat, claw marks, diggings, logs or stumps torn apart, etc.
* Avoid taking pets, they may attract bears to you.
Black Bear Encounters
* Black bears should always be considered unpredictable and potentially dangerous. A black bear will usually detect your presence and flee the area before you notice unless the bear has been conditioned to people and their foods.
* If a black bear is visible, but not close, alter your route so that you will move away from its area.
* If a black bear approaches, do not run. Remain calm, continue facing the bear and slowly back away. If the bear continues to approach, try to group together and pick up small children. Try to scare the bear away by shouting and acting aggressively.
* If a black bear attacks, it is suggested to fight back using everything in your power fists, sticks, rocks, and E.P.A. registered bear pepper spray.
Bear Pepper Spray
Bear Pepper Spray is not a substitution for following appropriate safety techniques.
* Bear pepper spray is not the same as personal defense spray, it must be E.P.A. registered.
* Bear pepper spray must contain 1.3%-2% capsaicin and related capsaicinoids. Suggested spray distance is at least 25 feet in a cloud pattern lasting 6 seconds or more.