Lethbridge’s snake expert has been in high demand this year. Ryan First Diver is the go-to person for about 70% of snake-related calls made to the City of Lethbridge hotline concerning snakes on public grounds. Under the city’s ongoing program to manage rattlesnakes, these reptiles are relocated from public areas to their natural habitats, including den sites, wintering spots, or birthing grounds. This year, a total of 211 snakes, including rattlers and look-alikes like bullsnakes, have been safely moved, marking a record-breaking number.
City bylaw officer Dave Henley mentioned that Lethbridge usually receives 150 to 160 snake-related calls annually. First Diver noted a significant increase in public awareness about snakes over the years, thanks to his social media posts. Consequently, the number of calls has fluctuated but seems to have stabilized at a level consistent with the community’s familiarity with snake issues.
Residents are now actively sharing snake awareness information online to help others identify and avoid potential encounters. Anyone in Lethbridge worried about snakes can contact the city’s hotline at 403-332-6806.
Despite common misconceptions, rattlesnakes are not inherently aggressive, as explained by First Diver. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance from these creatures, noting that they typically rely on camouflage and avoid confrontation if possible. Stefano Liccioli, a biologist specializing in at-risk species in Alberta, stressed that rattlesnakes rarely strike aggressively and only do so in self-defense or when cornered.
Recent upticks in snake-related calls in Lethbridge indicate a possible increase in the local rattlesnake population. Liccioli suggested that ongoing studies aim to provide more insight into the snake population trends in Alberta, with the goal of better understanding conservation needs and potential threats to these reptiles in the region. Tracking individual snakes with transmitters is part of the effort to gather more data for future conservation actions.
