A rattlesnake is easily identified by its triangular-shaped head and the rattles on its tail, which gives you an obvious warning if you come near them, and they feel threatened.

Adult rattlesnakes usually won't emerge until April; however, it is sometimes possible to find a baby rattlesnake at lower elevations in any season. A baby rattlesnake may or may not have rattles, it may have a "button" on the tip of its tail, but it can be just as dangerous as its adult parent.

If you hike much, you will eventually encounter a rattlesnake. If you pay close attention to where you are stepping and don't pick up or try to torment the snake, you will probably be okay.

Avoid it. Do not attempt to kill it. Usually the snake will move away from the trail - give it a few minutes to do that.

If you have a rattlesnake in your yard, call the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control at (626) 962-3577 so that the experts may handle it.