Staff Reports
BRYCE/EDEN – At approximately 10:12 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13,, a deputy with the Graham County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a woman reporting an unusual and potentially dangerous intruder: a rattlesnake in her kitchen. The incident, which occurred at a residence on W Bryce/Eden Rd, prompted a swift response from law enforcement to ensure the safety of the occupants.
According to a Sheriff’s Office report, a deputy was dispatched to the scene and arrived promptly to assess the situation. Working alongside the woman’s brother, the officer assisted in safely killing the rattlesnake and removing it from the residence, preventing any harm to the occupants or their pets.
Rattlesnakes, known for their distinctive rattling tail, are native to the Americas and are commonly found in the southwestern United States, including areas like W Bryce Eden Rd. These venomous snakes belong to the pit viper family and are equipped with heat-sensing pits that allow them to detect prey and potential threats. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 7,000–8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the U.S. each year, with rattlesnakes responsible for the majority of these incidents. While fatalities are rare—fewer than five deaths annually—rattlesnake bites can cause severe pain, swelling, and, if untreated, serious medical complications.
Rattlesnakes are typically active during warmer months, often seeking shelter in cooler indoor spaces during extreme heat or at night, which may explain how the snake entered the household. Experts advise residents to seal gaps around doors and windows, clear debris piles, and exercise caution when encountering snakes, as they may strike if threatened. The snakes’ characteristic rattle—a series of interlocking segments at the end of their tail—serves as a warning signal, though not all rattlesnakes rattle before striking.
Local wildlife officials remind residents that rattlesnakes play a vital role in ecosystems by controlling rodent populations. However, when they enter human dwellings, professional removal or, in some cases, lethal measures may be necessary to ensure safety. The officer’s quick response and collaboration with Elaine’s brother resolved the situation without incident, leaving the family safe and their home snake-free.
Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, particularly during the fall when snakes may become more active before hibernation. For those encountering a rattlesnake, authorities recommend maintaining a safe distance, avoiding provocation, and contacting local animal control or law enforcement for assistance.
No injuries were reported in this incident, and the rattlesnake was successfully removed from the premises. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of coexistence with local wildlife and the need for caution in areas where rattlesnakes are prevalent.
