Lethbridge’s resident rattlesnake handler has been kept busy this year. Ryan First Diver is quick to respond to the majority of calls made to the City of Lethbridge’s hotline concerning snakes on public property. These calls are part of the city’s ongoing rattlesnake mitigation initiative, which involves relocating snakes from public areas to their natural habitats, such as den sites or birthing grounds.
In the current year, a total of 211 snakes, including rattlesnakes and bullsnakes often mistaken for rattlers, have been relocated. This marks a new record, according to First Diver. The city typically receives around 150 to 160 snake-related calls annually, as noted by City of Lethbridge senior bylaw officer Dave Henley, who also assists in responding to these calls.
First Diver mentioned that community awareness of snakes has significantly improved over the years, thanks to his social media posts. Residents are now actively sharing information online to educate others about snakes and how to deal with snake sightings. If any Lethbridge residents encounter a snake and are concerned, they can contact the city’s hotline at 403-332-6806.
Contrary to common misconceptions, rattlesnakes are not aggressive creatures, as highlighted by First Diver. He emphasized that maintaining a safe distance from the snakes is usually sufficient to prevent any issues. Stefano Liccioli, a senior biologist with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, confirmed that rattlesnakes tend to strike only when threatened or provoked, rather than as an act of aggression.
The increased number of snake-related reports in Lethbridge may indicate a rise in snake populations or heightened public awareness, according to Liccioli. Efforts are underway to study and monitor rattlesnake populations in Alberta, including tagging some snakes with transmitters to track their movements and locate their dens. Liccioli anticipates obtaining comprehensive data on snake population trends in Alberta within the next five to ten years to inform conservation strategies and potential protective measures.