Rattlesnakes Are 'Higher Than Normal' in South Dakota This Year

It's turning into a dangerous summer South Dakota thanks to the rattlesnakes slithering around the state.

Officials are alerting residents that there is an uptick in rattlesnake activity this year, and it's never a bad idea to brush-up on your rattlesnake safety tips.

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Where Are Rattlesnakes Commonly Found in South Dakota?

The National Park Service says the Prairie Rattlesnakes are mostly found prairies, badlands, foothills, and along the Missouri River. They're really actively around the Badlands as well as the grasslands of Custer State Park. And yes...the Prairie Rattlesnake is dangerously venomous. Not to mention mean!

Prairie Rattlesnakes can grow up to 5 feet long. This species of rattlesnake has a triangular head and body covered in dark blotches which gradually turn into rings as they near the tail.

Check out this latest South Dakota rattlesnake around Pennington County. It's wild!

This officer from the Pennington County Sheriff's Office is brave for capturing this rattlesnake.

Pennington County Sheriff's Office (via Facebook), Canva

So What Should I Do If I See A Rattlesnake In South Dakota?

If I were you, I wouldn't go near that snake. It's the best way to keep you safe!

To avoid rattlesnake bites, keep a keen eye and ear out while hiking. Prairie rattlesnakes often seek out spots where they are well-hidden and can be found under thick prairie grasses or in shaded badlands formations. One of the best ways to prevent a bite is to give these animals plenty of space and not try to handle them

The Rapid City Fire Department recently posted a helpful video on Facebook detailing the dangers of rattlesnakes in South Dakota. With cooler temperatures returning to South Dakota, the chances of seeing a rattlesnake are pretty high right now.

If a rattlesnake bites you, call 9-1-1 right away. It's a serious situation.

Better safe than sorry!

South Dakota's Snakes: A Local Guide to Identifying and Understanding Our Slithering Neighbors!

South Dakota may not have creepy crawlies like they do in Australia. But, there are a fair amount of snakes to be found here.

We can find some in the Black Hills, some enjoy life on the west-river plains, and several are concentrated in the southeastern part of the state along the Missouri River.

There are seven common species of snake that can be found throughout the state, including our one venomous species.