A rattlesnake like this one. Photo via San Diego County News Center.
A rattlesnake like this one bit the boy in Escondido. Photo via San Diego County News Center

An 8-year-old boy bitten by a rattlesnake in Escondido was listed in “critical but stable” condition Friday at Rady Children’s Hospital.

Derek Perkins was airlifted to the hospital after authorities were alerted to his injury around 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

The youngster was picked up in the area of Lake Wohlford and Valley Center roads but it was unclear where the child was bitten, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

Hospital officials said the boy is in the pediatric intensive care ward and his parents are requesting privacy.

— City News Service