Rattlesnake Found Among Toys in Calabasas Backyard, Family Escapes Harm

Los Angeles-based cinematographer Hugo Will found a sizable rattlesnake camouflaged among the toys in his Calabasas backyard, a spot where his children often play. He called emergency services, and Los Angeles County firefighters retrieved the snake with a specialized grabber. Will was grateful that his children were not home during the discovery.

The story echoes a recent incident in Lake Oroville, where visitor Christopher Howarth stepped on a rattlesnake, suffered two bites and needed 54 vials of antivenom before being transferred to Stanford Hospital. California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife advises the public to avoid tall grass and keep pets leashed, noting that even seemingly dead snakes can still inject venom. The agency also recommends checking rocks, logs and stumps in brushy areas. Authorities stress continued awareness as the state is home to seven rattlesnake species.