See a Rattle Snake

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When most of us think of rattlesnakes, we get scared. But, the rattlesnake is an amazing, well-adapted creature that deserves our respect. Many of the behaviors that are most scary to us are actually ways that rattlesnakes have developed to preserve energy. Cold-blooded, they are usually between two and six feet long and have only the energy they get from the sun. Their venom and rattle are two examples of how rattlesnakes use their limited energy carefully. While it’s easy to think of rattlesnake poison as a weapon, its primary use is as a tool to catch food. Not unlike a bow and arrow or a gun, venom allows rattlesnakes to paralyze their rodent prey easily. Though startling to us, the rattle at the end of a rattlesnake’s tail is actually a warning mechanism. By shaking only the tip of their tail, rattlesnakes signal to predators and spaced-out humans that they are nearby. Their tails are made of keratin, the same material that makes up our hair and nails. Each time the snake sheds its skin, a new segment is added to the rattle. So, do rattlesnakes and yourself a favor: Watch where you put your hands and feet! And remember, more than fear, rattlesnakes deserve our respect. BONUS: How to Handle a Snake Bite Watching where you put your hands and where you step are the best ways of preventing a bite from a rattlesnake. But, if you or someone you know gets bitten, there are a few things you can do to minimize the venom’s damage. First, keep the victim calm and restrict movement so that the poison doesn’t circulate. If you can, try to position the affected area below the person’s heart. Next, seek immediate care. Never under any circumstances try to suck the poison from the wound. It may play well in movies but it doesn’t work in real life!

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