Rattlesnake Warning Signs
Rattlesnakes are a group of venomous snakes sometimes called pit vipers. There are sixteen different varieties. Although they are concentrated in the southwestern United States, they can be found in all contiguous states. Their venom can cause serious illness and even death in humans. Rattlesnakes usually will not strike at people unless provoked, although there are some cases of unprovoked attacks. There are four warning signs indicating the possibility that rattlesnakes might pose a danger to you.
Snake Dens
Snakes hibernate for the winter in snake dens, which are usually crevices in rocky ledges. In fact, these animals rarely migrate more than a few miles from these homes. Local governments may post signs in areas where such snakes are known to hibernate. If you see one of these signs, you should watch your surroundings carefully and try to avoid these snakes.
Landscape
Rattlesnakes are cold-blooded creatures, which means they rely on the external environment to control their body temperature. When they are hot, they prefer cool, dark areas such as fallen logs or undersides of rocky outcroppings and ledges. When they are too cold, they like to sun themselves on top of boulders and flat rocks. These snakes can blend into their surroundings so you need to be aware of what kind of habitat they prefer if you are in an area populated by rattlesnakes.
Coil
A rattlesnake will usually circle its body into a defensive coil before attacking. However, they do not always coil before they strike. A rattlesnake will coil itself when it feels threatened. You should keep your distance and not make any sudden movements. They have a long striking distance and it is important not to underestimate this and get too close. If the snake perceives that you are not a threat, it will usually retreat.
Rattle
The most obvious sign that a rattlesnake is about to attack is the rattle sound that its tail makes. These snakes have hollow beads on their tails that produce the sound when they bump together as the snake moves its tail.
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