All About Rattlesnakes

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Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of the rattle on a rattlesnake?

To defend itself physically
To communicate with other snakes
To warn an intruder (correct)
To attract prey

A rattlesnake usually bites a person when someone tries to help it.

False (B)

What should a person do if they are bitten by a rattlesnake?

Receive immediate medical attention

The body of a rattlesnake is typically ________________ with darker circular blotches along its back and sides.

grayish or brownish gray Signup and view all the answers

Match the characteristics of a rattlesnake with its corresponding description:

Rattle = An organ made up of loosely-attached pieces of horn Body color = Grayish or brownish gray with darker circular blotches Underside color = Creamish color Reaction to threat = Bites when someone tries to catch, kill, or harm it Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment for a rattlesnake bite?

Anti-venom to fight the poison in the body (A) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Physical Characteristics of Rattlesnakes

A rattlesnake's body is grayish or brownish gray with darker circular blotches along its back and sides.
The underside of a rattlesnake is a creamish color.

Rattle Characteristics

The rattle is an organ made up of loosely-attached pieces of horn.
When rattled, the pieces of horn bounce against each other, making the rattle sound.

Purpose of the Rattle

The rattle is used to warn an intruder that the snake is there.

Behavior and Venom

Rattlesnakes are venomous, which means they are poisonous.
A rattlesnake usually bites a person when someone tries to catch, kill, or harm it.

Rattlesnake Bites and Treatment

When a rattlesnake bites a person, they should be treated with anti-venom, which fights the poison in the body.
Most people do not die when a rattlesnake has bitten them.
When people are bitten by a rattlesnake, they should receive immediate medical attention.