I have come across rattlesnakes in the desert many times and have freaked out. I'm typically pretty calm during a crisis and have been told that I'm the epitome of "grace under pressure". This though ...
All over the world experts have noticed certain plants and trees attract snakes like crazy. Ditto for El Paso. Thanks to thick root systems, shade, moisture from watering and the presence of prey; many plants and trees are "snake friendly".
Most of Texas, even El Paso, gets cold enough for snakes to hibernate through winter. While they snooze, gather these things to make sure they avoid your house next spring.