RATTLESNAKES: In ideal habitats where there is a constant, abundant supply of small rodents, the Pacific rattler sometimes attains a length of 5 feet, but the average adult size is between 3 and 4 feet. It is more slender than the heavy-bodied diamondbacks of the south and eastern United States. The color of the Pacific and pattern of its markings are varied, ranging from brown to grayish or greenish tones with large blotches of lighter hues along its back.

When temperatures begin to warm in May and early June, snakes come out of hibernation. They remain near the den entrance for a few days, sunning themselves, then make their way to where they will spend the summer. They rarely go more than a mile from their dens. Most snakes are secretive in their summer activities, hunting at night and remaining inactive and out of sight for days at a time during the digestive period after eating a squirrel or small rabbit. Consequently, more snakes are seen in the spring and fall migrations to and from their winter homes.

Most rattlesnakes, when disturbed, normally try to withdraw But if they think they are cornered, the explosive sizzling buzz of their rattles is an unmistakable warning to retreat and is a sound that will long be remembered.

WASPS: Wasps in this family are social Insects that take care of their young. Most wasps are solitary but others, like Yellowjackets and Hornets live in large colonies, consisting of one queen and many workers. Some of these wasps are dark brown but most are striped yellow and black Bee-like insects. They nest in grey or tan, oval or irregular-shaped, papery nests in trees and under house eaves or even in the ground. Some move into the house. Most are beneficial as they kill many pest insects around the yard, but Yellowjackets and Hornets may become pests when colonies grow in size and workers invade people's habitat looking for food. When agitated they can render a painful sting. Some people are allergic to these stings and need medical attention immediately. Wasps can sting more than once, which is not the case with Bees, as their stingers are hooked and remain stuck in the victim. Hornets are like Yellowjackets but larger and could also be dark brown to black in colour. They produce tan-coloured nests. Some Wasps make umbrella-shaped nests and are known as Umbrella Wasps.

TICKS: Preventing tick bites –
· Avoid grassy areas and shrubs where ticks may be lying in wait to tag a ride on a potential "meal."
· Avoid tick season completely by staying away from outdoor areas where ticks thrive, usually during the months of May through September.
· Wear light-colored clothing so you can spot ticks easily and brush them off.
 · Tuck your pants into your boots or socks.
· Apply insect repellant, specifically the brands designed to repel ticks. Follow label instructions.
 · Promptly check yourself, others, and your pets if exposed to tick areas.

Lone Star Tick

Deer Tick

American Dog Tick

Rocky Mountain
Wood Tick

Brown Dog Tick

Range Critters to be aware off as your traverse the range grounds