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rattlesnake
Sign in to saveRattlesnakes are venomous snakes that form the genera Crotalus and Sistrurus of the subfamily Crotalinae (the pit vipers). Rattlesnakes are predators that live in a wide array of habitats, hunting small animals such as birds and rodents.
Article
37 sectionsContents
- Etymology
- Ecology
- Range and habitat
- Prey
- Hydration
- Predators
- Anatomy
- Sensory organs
- Heat-sensing pits
- Eyes
- Smell
- Auditory system
- Fangs
- Venom
- Rattle
- Skin and circulation
- Reproduction
- Hybridization
- Brumation
- Conservation status
- Safety and first aid
- Avoiding bites
- Effect of bites on humans
- Antivenom
- Veterinary care
- In human culture
- Spirituality
- Indigenous Americans
- Christian snake-handling sects
- In traditional medicine
- As food
- Symbolism
- See also
- References
- Sources
- Further reading
- External links
Rattlesnakes are venomous snakes that form the genera Crotalus and Sistrurus of the subfamily Crotalinae (the pit vipers). Rattlesnakes are predators that live in a wide array of habitats, hunting small animals such as birds and rodents.
Rattlesnakes receive their name from the rattle located at the end of their tails, which makes a loud rattling noise when vibrated that deters predators. Rattlesnakes are the leading contributor to snakebite injuries in North America, but rarely bite unless provoked or threatened; if treated promptly, the bites are seldom fatal.