Rattlesnakes, found primarily in the Americas, are venomous snakes known for their distinctive rattling sound. This article explores how this sound is made and what it communicates.
The Signature Rattling Sound
The sound produced by a rattlesnake is often described as a dry, buzzing, or hissing rattle. This noise comes from specialized, hollow, interlocked keratin segments at the end of its tail, similar to human fingernails.
The snake produces the rattling sound by rapidly vibrating these tail segments. Powerful muscles in the tail cause the keratin pieces to strike against each other, creating the noise. These muscles are among the fastest known in the animal kingdom, capable of firing up to 90 times per second. The segments’ hollow nature amplifies the sound.
Several factors can influence the sound of the rattle. The snake’s size, age, and temperature can all play a role, as can the number of rattle segments it possesses. As a rattlesnake sheds its skin, a new segment is added to the base of the rattle, though older segments can break off, meaning the number of segments does not reliably indicate age.
Other Sounds and Common Misconceptions
While the rattle is their primary sound, rattlesnakes can also hiss when threatened. A defensive strike can also create a sound, though it is not a vocalization. Some snakes, not just rattlesnakes, vibrate their tails, which can create a similar sound in dry leaves or debris.
It is a common misconception that rattlesnakes always rattle before striking; a surprised or cornered snake may strike without warning. The rattle is also often misunderstood as signaling an imminent attack; instead, it is primarily a warning to deter threats.
Interpreting the Rattle’s Message
The primary purpose of the rattling sound is as a defensive warning. It announces the snake’s presence and readiness to defend itself, deterring perceived threats. The rattle is a sign of stress or fear, not aggression.
Rattlesnakes would rather avoid confrontation than use their venom, which is valuable for hunting prey. By rattling, the snake signals for an intruder to back away, conserving its energy and venom. Situations that might provoke rattling include feeling cornered, being surprised, or if an intruder approaches too closely, typically within a few feet.