This cache is about .2 of a mile, round trip, from the turnout.
There is a path leading down to the service road that will allow
easy access to the cache.
Turn out: N 34° 17.572 W 117° 20.487.
THIS IS SNAKE COUNTRY. SNAKES LIKE SHADE ON HOT
DAYS JUST LIKE WE DO. A GOOD HIDING PLACE FOR A CACHE MAY ALSO BE
INVITING TO A SNAKE. BRING A STICK TO USE IN PLACE OF YOUR HAND
WHEN CHECKING UNDER ROCKS, BUSHES, ETC.
The Southern Pacific, also called Western Rattlesnake, is the
most common rattlesnake in this area. While they can reach a length
of 5 feet, 2.5 to 4 feet is common. They range in color, from gray,
olive, to brown. Juveniles have a bright yellow-green tail.
Populations living at higher altitudes are often almost black with
very faint markings. Young are born live from August to October.
When born they are about 10 inches long and have fangs and venom.
The juveniles do not have rattles until they have shed their skin a
few times. Juveniles are quicker to strike than adults and will
usually inject all their venom when they strike.
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| Adult Southern Pacific rattlesnake
(click on photo to hear it's warning). |
This photo of an 11" long juvenile was
taken at Lake Silverwood. Note yellow color at the tip of the tail
and the absence of a rattle. |