How Does a Rattle Snake Protect Itself From Animals?

Rattlesnakes don't attack unless they are threatened.

Snakes are one of the most misunderstood groups of animals and play an important role in several natural habitats. Rattlesnakes do not normally strike unless they feel threatened, making them less of a threat than most people realize. Rattlesnakes tend to mate during the later part of the summer, and their eggs hatch in during the following fall. Rattlesnakes have the ability to defend themselves from the time of their birth.

Camouflage

Prairie rattlesnakes feature gray and green bodies with patches of green that allow the snake to blend into their surroundings. Rattlesnakes are not always identified by their patterns and may feature several different markings. The most common way to identify them is by the rattle. Rattlesnakes feature evolved color schemes used to warn predators of the danger. Other, non-venomous snakes have evolved into similar colors as a means to defend themselves.

Rattle

The rattle is primarily used to warn larger animals of the presence of the snake and also is intended as a means of communication. It does not always indicate that the snake intends to strike. The rattlesnake occasionally will not have a rattle, making it possible to encounter a snake without realizing it. For safety, always be aware of where you are walking and pay close attention to your surroundings. As the snake ages and sheds its skin, the rattle will grow a new segment, making it possible to use the rattle to determine the age of the snake.

Fangs Extended

When a rattlesnake intends to bite, they will extend their fangs forward, releasing venom from their long, curved fangs. As the snake extends their fangs, their head gains the triangular appearance that rattlesnakes are known for. These snakes feature strong jaw muscles that work to push the venom out of the slits near their large fangs.

Night Hunters

Rattlesnakes primarily hunt at night. The snakes have poor eyesight, and use their ability to detect heat to sense their prey. They also use their tongues to pick up scents in the air. These snakes primarily feed on rodents, birds, lizards, frogs and toads. They may also prey on young prairie dogs and burrowing owls.

References

• Northern State University: Prairie Rattlesnake
• The Center For Reptile And Amphibian Conservation And Management: The Snakes Of Indiana
• DRI: Rattlesnake Safety