Why do rattlesnakes rattle?
Rattlesnakes rattle to frighten away intruders. It also serves as a warning that the snake is about to strike. Typically, the snake will try avoid human encounters because it only hunts for prey which it can swallow whole like rabbits, squirrels and other small rodents.
Rattlesnakes generally will not strike at a large animal or human unless they feel threatened. If startled or provoked, rattlesnakes may bite without coiling up and rattling an advanced warning. A coiled snake can strike quickly and has a range of approximately 1/2 to 2/3 its total body length. But, it doesn’t have to be coiled to be able to strike.
There are nearly 50 different rattlesnake species and numerous subspecies recognized in the United States. They are sometimes identified by the jointed rattles at the ends of their tails. However, newborns don’t have rattles yet, and the rattles can be lost to predators or by other means. So, the presence or absense of rattles is not the most reliable way of identifying rattlesnakes.
The following are generally more reliable ways of identifying rattlesnakes: the shape of their heads, vertical pupils in their eyes, and the two facial pits between the eyes and nostrils.
The facial pits are why rattlesnakes are classified as part of the “pit viper” family. These highly-sensitive pits detect the body heat emanating from warm-blooded animals. They can determine how big the animal is, as well as being able to detect prey in complete darkness.
Most rattlesnakes live in the southwestern United States. But, there are numerous species and subspecies that extend north, east and south, so there is at least one variety in every contiguous state. The coloring and pattern of the snake’s skin, size of the snake and geographical location can help you identify the particular rattlesnake species or subspecies.
All rattlesnakes are venomous, but the venom is different among rattlesnakes species and subspecies. As a result, treatment for rattlesnake bites differs depending on what rattlesnake species or subspecies bit the victim. Proper identification of the sanke will help medical professionals and poison control centers know how to best treat a snake-bite victim.
The best way to avoid being bitten is to avoid an encounter altogether. Watch your step around fallen logs or boulders, and be cautious when near rocky outcroppings and ledges where rattlesnakes may be hiding or sunning themselves. If you do encounter a rattlesnake, be sure to give it plenty of room to retreat.