12 Things You Didn't Know About Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are venomous snakes that have been around since prehistoric times. They are found throughout North America, Central America, South America, and parts of Europe and Asia. There are over 100 different species of rattlesnakes, but only 6 of them are considered dangerous. These include the Copperhead, Timber rattlesnake, Western diamondback rattlesnake, Southern copperhead, Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, and the Mojave rattlesnake. Rattlesnakes can be identified by their triangular-shaped head, large fangs, and rattle on their tail. Although they may appear harmless, they are aggressive and should never be approached. If bitten, seek medical attention immediately.

1. Rattlesnakes are venomous snakes that have been around since prehistoric times. They can be found throughout North America, South America, Central America, Mexico, and even parts of Europe. If they are threatened, they will try to escape by slithering away. Their bite is extremely dangerous, but not fatal if treated right away.

2. Rattlesnakes come in many different sizes and colors. Some rattlesnakes are small enough to fit into your hand while others are large enough to swallow a human whole! There are more than 100 species of rattlesnakes, including Copperhead, Water Moccasin, Timber Rattler, Western Diamondback, and Eastern Coral Snake.

3. Rattlesnakes do not eat meat, but instead, they eat insects, lizards, amphibians, birds, fish, and other reptiles. They will sometimes eat rodents, too. The venom from their fangs is what kills their prey. The venom contains chemicals called neurotoxins that destroy nerve cells and cause severe pain. This paralysis can last for hours or days.

4. Rattlesnakes use their rattle to warn predators that they are poisonous. When a predator approaches, the snake will shake its tail, making loud noises that echo through the forest. These sounds help the snake's prey know that they should run for safety.

5. Rattlesnake has two types of glands: Anal Glands and Venom Glands. The back glands produce a clear substance that helps them cleanse themselves after release. The venom glands contain toxins that protect the snake against predators.

6. Rattlesnakes cannot move backward, forwards, sideways, or upside down without using their tails. They can only move forward, backward, or side-to-side. They can swim, climb trees, and burrow underground.

7. A rattlesnake has been known to kill over 100 people per year. Rattlesnakes are dangerous animals that can cause serious injuries and even death. They have venom glands located in their fangs and they use these glands to inject their venom into their prey. A snake’s bite can cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, and infection. If bitten, seek medical attention immediately.

8. Rattlesnake bite symptoms vary depending on what type of snake was involved. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, redness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and difficulty breathing. Most people who get bit by rattlesnakes do not experience any serious side effects, however, if the venom enters through a cut or wound, then this could lead to infection.

9. Rattlesnakes use their tails to warn predators of their presence. This warning is called a rattle. When threatened, the rattlesnake will shake its tail rapidly from side to side. In addition, rattlesnakes are known to hiss to scare off potential prey.

10. Rattlesnakes have many different ways to defend themselves against predators. One way is by using their fangs to inject venom into their victim. Another method is by constricting the victim’s blood vessels. A third defense mechanism is by wrapping their body around their prey and squeezing until death occurs.

11. Rattlesnakes cannot swim and therefore rely on the land to move about. However, some species can climb trees and run across bodies of water.

12. Rattlesnakes eat a variety of animals including lizards, frogs, mice, birds, fish, small mammals, and even other snakes. Their diet consists mainly of rodents, amphibians, reptiles, and insects.