LETHBRIDGE- An investigation is underway into a possible rattlesnake killing in the coulees.
Fish and Wildlife, along with City of Lethbridge ecological consultant Ryan Heavy Head, are looking into the alleged incident that happened Sunday. A person at the Scenic Heights playground reported seeing a group of five walk into the coulee with shovels, and later return with a dead snake.
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Heavy Head said the warmer weather can entice snakes out of their dens, even though it’s only February.
It is against the law to kill a rattlesnake, disturb a den or even keep rattlesnake parts. Heavy Head said the reported incident was frustrating to hear about, and is reminding area residents that the coulees are the snakes’ natural habitat and that they’re a valuable part of the river valley’s ecosystem.
“I would just like to ask anyone who is out in the coulees to keep an eye out for any behaviour that could harm the snakes. Everyone has cellphones these days so snap a picture, it could really help us find someone responsible for an act like this,” Heavy Head said.
If residents come across a snake in an area it shouldn’t be in or one that causes concern, they are asked to contact the City of Lethbridge.