Kingsnakes are one of the most widespread snake species in the US. There are four species of rattlesnakes found in San Diego. Toxin levels in rattler venom vary from year to year and season to season but – typically- venom is weaker in winter and stronger in summer because snakes are more active, fighting for food and for survival. Because of San Diego's warm climate, reptile experts say you could encounter a venomous snake year round in the county. “The only poisonous spiders in San Diego County are the black widow, brown widow and the desert recluse,” states the county website. Since January, several patients have suffered bites with severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, often after a bite from the Southern Pacific Rattlesnake. This harmless snake is common in southern California and less common in the San Joaquin Valley and foothills, and is active during the day. What rattlesnakes are found around San Diego? Found frequently on rocky hillsides, it is active all year-round, although most-active from April to November. Photo Index of California Snakes Click on a picture for a larger view These are pictures of California's indigenous snakes along with one introduced species and one that might occur in California. Clark emphasized that while San Diego County is seeing a rise in snake bite cases each year, the more alarming factor recently is the toxicity of the bite. Often this snake will mimic a rattlesnake as a defensive tactic: by its similar coloration, by … Of the non-venomous snakes in the state, the San Francisco garter snake and giant garter snake are also legally protected. This snake rarely rattles or strikes when approached. Venomous Snakes of California: It is said that there are over 33 species of snake in California although luckily, only around 18% of the species are venomous, and less than 10% of snake sightings are of a California venomous snake. In the coastal and mountain regions of San Diego County there are three kinds: the Western Rattlesnake, the Speckled Rattlesnake , and the Red Diamond Rattlesnake . In our area, the only venomous snakes are rattlesnakes. For the second year in a row, UC San Diego Medical Center toxicologists are reporting unusually powerful snake bites and unusually extreme patient reactions to those bites. Since January, several patients have suffered bites with severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, often after a bite from the Southern Pacific Rattlesnake. Snakes have been a part of the San Diego Zoo’s animal collection since its inception. The Red Diamond Rattlesnake (crotalus ruber ruber) is San Diego County’s largest venomous snake. It is a CA Species of Special Concern. In the coastal and mountain areas, the types of such snakes include the Western , Southwestern Speckled and Red Diamond . At the same time, it is the second least venomous of San Diego’s rattlesnakes. In the desert is the Sidewinder.. How do you tell if a snake is venomous? A snake that can reach up to 9’ long, the gopher snake is undoubtedly our largest snake. By 1922, a fine reptile house, which doubled as the Zoo’s entrance, exhibited 46 snake species, including pythons, 11 rattlesnake species, vipers, and boa constrictors. The Red Diamond Rattlesnake (crotalus ruber ruber) is San Diego County’s largest venomous snake. That’s the red diamond rattlesnake. The king of snakes: If you've lived in California for a while, chances are good that you've encountered a king—a kingsnake, that is!