Del Rio police officers responded to a late-night animal complaint and discovered a rattlesnake curled up under a bed inside a bedroom, reminding South Texans that peak snake season is underway as warmer weather draws the reptiles out in search of food and shelter.
The incident occurred on March 23, 2026, at approximately 11:54 p.m. in the 100 block of Irene Avenue. Officers from the Del Rio Police Department arrived, immediately evacuated the occupants for safety, and called Del Rio Animal Services. The snake was removed without incident, and no injuries were reported.
The discovery highlights how rattlesnakes can enter homes seeking relief from temperatures or prey. March and April mark the height of snake activity across Texas as the reptiles emerge from hibernation.
Texas is home to about 10 species of rattlesnakes, the most common venomous snakes in the state. Nationwide, venomous snakes bite roughly 7,000 people each year, but only about 0.2 percent of those bites are fatal. In Texas, an average of one to two people die annually from venomous snakebites, with roughly half of all venomous bites being “dry” — meaning no venom is injected.
Del Rio police reminded residents that snakes commonly emerge during warmer months and urged caution. Officials advise people to avoid approaching any snake and let it move away on its own. Homeowners should stay aware of their surroundings, keep grass trimmed short, and remove woodpiles, debris, brush, and clutter that could provide hiding spots.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department guidelines echo that advice: store wood piles, trash, and livestock pens away from homes; keep storage areas neat; avoid reaching into unseen spaces; and use a flashlight at night. If a snake is spotted, the best response is to remain calm, give it space, and slowly back away.
In case of a bite, seek immediate medical care by calling 911 or heading to an emergency room. While waiting for help, stay still and calm, clean the bite with soap and water, cover it with a clean dry bandage, and remove jewelry or tight clothing near the area. Do not apply ice, a tourniquet, or attempt to suck out venom.
The Del Rio incident ended safely, but it serves as a timely reminder for families across South Texas to take simple steps to reduce encounters during this active season.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
The discovery highlights how rattlesnakes can enter homes seeking relief from temperatures or prey.
