Rattlesnake rattles are crafted from keratin, producing a distinct hissing sound when the snake vibrates its tail to ward off predators.
With each shedding cycle, rattlesnakes add a new segment to their rattles, although the length doesn't necessarily indicate age due to segment breakage.
Arizona hosts numerous rattlesnake species, including the western diamond-backed and sidewinder rattlesnakes, with special protections for four species.
Rattlesnakes lack eardrums but sense vibrations through their jawbones, relying on vibrations for "hearing."
Rattlesnake bites are uncommon and mostly occur when humans accidentally encounter or provoke the snakes, with less than 1% of bites resulting in death.
Rattlesnake bites are uncommon and mostly occur when humans accidentally encounter or provoke the snakes, with less than 1% of bites resulting in death.
Female rattlesnakes give live births after carrying and incubating eggs internally for about 90 days, with breeding occurring every two years.
Facial pits detect heat, allowing rattlesnakes to perceive prey even in darkness, with a specialized organ aiding in detecting, tasting, and smelling substances in the air.