Many non-venomous snakes are often mistaken for rattlesnakes, leading to unnecessary fear or misidentification. These harmless snakes mimic certain features or behaviors of rattlesnakes, which can cause confusion. Accurate identification is important for human safety and snake conservation. Understanding the differences helps ensure appropriate responses when encountering them.
Key Characteristics of Rattlesnakes
Rattlesnakes possess several distinct characteristics. Their most recognizable feature is the rattle at the end of their tail. This structure consists of interlocking keratin segments, producing a buzzing sound when vibrated rapidly. Young rattlesnakes are born with a single “button,” and new segments are added each time the snake sheds its skin, though segments can break off over time.
Their head shape is typically triangular or spade-shaped, noticeably broader than their neck due to venom glands. Rattlesnakes also have vertical, elliptical pupils. As pit vipers, they possess two heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils, which they use to detect warm-blooded prey. Their bodies are generally heavy-built, often displaying patterns of diamonds or blotches.
Common Rattlesnake Mimics
Several non-venomous snake species resemble rattlesnakes due to their appearance or defensive behaviors. Gopher snakes, also known as bullsnakes, are common mimics. They share similar coloration and blotchy patterns with rattlesnakes. When threatened, gopher snakes can hiss loudly and vibrate their tails, which, especially in dry leaves or grass, can produce a rustling sound similar to a rattle.
Hognose snakes are another group often mistaken for rattlesnakes. They are known for their defensive displays, including flattening their heads and necks to appear triangular. These snakes may also hiss loudly, strike with a closed mouth, and even play dead by flipping onto their backs. While hognose snakes possess a mild venom used for subduing prey, it is generally not considered dangerous to humans. Other non-venomous snakes like some king snakes or milk snakes with similar patterned markings can also be confused with rattlesnakes.
Distinguishing Features: How to Tell Them Apart
Distinguishing a rattlesnake from a mimic often involves examining the tail. Rattlesnakes have a segmented, keratinous rattle that produces a distinct buzzing sound when vibrated. Mimics, such as gopher snakes, vibrate their tails against vegetation or the ground, creating a rustling sound, but they lack actual rattle segments. Listening closely for the specific quality of the sound can help differentiate.
Differences in head shape and pupils are also indicators. A rattlesnake’s head is triangular due to its venom glands, with a narrow neck constriction. In contrast, mimics like gopher snakes and hognose snakes achieve a triangular appearance by flattening their heads defensively, but their heads are typically more rounded or narrower than a rattlesnake’s when relaxed. Rattlesnakes possess vertical, slit-like pupils, while most non-venomous mimics have round pupils.
The presence of heat-sensing pits between the eye and nostril is unique to rattlesnakes; mimics do not have these pits. While behavioral displays can be misleading, rattlesnakes typically coil and rattle before striking. Mimics, despite their hissing and striking displays, often engage in bluffing behaviors, such as striking with a closed mouth or playing dead, and are generally more likely to flee if given the opportunity. Observing the scales on the top of the head can also provide a clue: rattlesnakes tend to have many small, irregular scales, whereas many non-venomous snakes have larger, symmetrical scales. However, this feature requires a closer, potentially unsafe, observation.
Encountering an Unidentified Snake
When encountering any snake, the safest approach is to maintain a considerable distance, ideally at least six feet. Snakes are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid conflict, typically striking only if they feel threatened or are unable to escape. Observe the snake from afar without attempting to interact with, harass, or kill it.
Most snakes will move away on their own if given enough space and time. If a snake is in an undesirable location, such as inside a home or garage, and cannot be left alone, contact local animal control or a professional snake removal service. Prioritizing safety and non-engagement is important when dealing with any unidentified snake.