The Rattlesnake: Habitat, Diet, and Bite Treatment
The best way to determine whether there are any rattlesnakes in your area is to learn about the rattlesnake habitat and the physical characteristics of this species. There are several types of rattlesnake, but most can be spotted by the characteristic beehive-shaped tail end. One might think that the “rattle” sound is produced by loose, moving objects inside the tail, but actually, this portion of the tail is empty. The rattling sound is produced by the different bubble-like sections moving against one another. A section is formed every tie the snake sheds its skin. Young snakes which have only shed once may only have one section on their tail, which makes them incapable of producing the formidable warning rattle.
As for identifiable markings, some rattlesnakes have a characteristic diamond-shaped print that runs along their back, but not all have this. In fact, there are a few species of rattlesnake that have no discernable markings whatsoever. Rattlesnakes also come in a variety of colors, such as brown, grey, black, yellow, cream, orange, pink, and green. Due to the wide range of the rattlesnake’s physical characteristics, the best way to positively identify a rattlesnake is by its tail.
Worldwide Look at the Rattlesnake Habitat
Rattlesnakes are indigenous to the North and South American continents. Over the years, rattlesnakes have been forced to adapt to varying types of areas. Many people often picture a desert-like climate when they think of rattlesnakes, and while they do heavily populate desert areas, they also live in woodland terrain and even mountains. In North America, rattlesnakes are most commonly found in the southern part of the United States. Like most snakes, rattlesnakes tend to stick close to areas where they can easily reach shelter, such as heavy brush, rocks, fallen trees, and soil or sand. Naturally, a rattlesnake habitat must also include quick access to food.
Diet and Behavior
Rattlesnakes, like most wild snakes, have a diet high in live prey such as mice and other rodents. Large rattlesnakes have the capability of going after larger prey such as squirrels, prairie dogs, small rabbits, weasels, and skunks. Basically anything small enough for a rattlesnake to sink its teeth into is fair game! In the event that larger prey is unattainable, the rattlesnake will go after easier food sources, such as lizards and birds, to tide itself over until a larger meal can be found.
Most rattlesnakes are not aggressive by nature and generally only strike when they feel a direct threat. They may also be provoked into an attack through pestering or taunting which may be viewed as a threat. Rattlesnakes are very secretive creatures and do like their privacy. Traipsing near a rattlesnake’s nest or home is definitely not a good idea!
Treating a Rattlesnake Bite
Most snake bites occur on the hands, feet, and ankles. More rattlesnake bites tend to occur in the mid-spring, typically in April, and in early autumn around October. It is estimated that a quarter of all rattlesnake bites are “dry”, which means that the snake does not inject venom into the skin. This is largely due to the non-aggressive nature of the rattlesnake and can be viewed as a “warning bite”. Regardless of whether the victim has been injected with venom, it is imperative that any rattlesnake bite victim be taken to the hospital immediately for medical treatment. “Dry” wounds must still be disinfected and properly dressed by a physician. Although venomous bites occur more often out of all rattlesnake bites, they are very rarely a fatal affliction. The victim should try to move as little as possible after the bite, with the exception of moving away from the snake. The wound should be gently rinsed with warm water while emergency services are contacted, and the bitten area should remain at a level below the heart, if possible. When emergency services arrive, the victim may be given pain medication by IV until they arrive at the hospital, where antivenin can be administered. As long as there are no complications, most rattlesnake bite victims are allowed to go home either the same day or the following day.
Rattlesnake bites are definitely not something to play around with. No amateur attempt should be made to draw out the poison by sucking it out, cutting skin away, or icing the area. The most vital course of action is to always contact 911 for instructions on what to do next.