Rattlesnakes are a distinctive group of venomous snakes, immediately recognizable by the unique structure at the end of their tails. The rattle is composed of interlocking segments made of keratin, the same material found in human fingernails.
First Rattle Appearance
A rattlesnake is not born with a fully formed, functional rattle. At birth, they possess a single, soft segment at the tip of their tail, often called a “pre-button” or “birth button.” The first true, hardened rattle segment forms after the snake’s very first shedding of its skin, which usually occurs within days to a few weeks following birth.
Rattle Development Throughout Life
After the first segment forms, a new rattle segment is added each time the snake sheds its skin. This growth process means the newest segment is always located at the base of the tail, closest to the snake’s body. The frequency of shedding, and thus the rate of rattle growth, can vary considerably based on factors like the snake’s age, its growth rate, and the availability of food. Younger, rapidly growing rattlesnakes tend to shed more frequently, sometimes several times a year, while older adults may shed less often, perhaps once or twice annually. Older segments of the rattle can become dry and brittle, often breaking off due to wear and tear from movement through their habitat or during encounters with other animals.
Purpose of the Rattle
The primary function of the rattlesnake’s rattle is to serve as a warning mechanism. When threatened, a rattlesnake rapidly vibrates its tail, causing the hollow, interlocking keratin segments to strike against each other and produce a distinct buzzing sound. This auditory signal alerts potential predators or large animals, including humans, to the snake’s presence, encouraging them to keep their distance. The rattle effectively communicates a “stay away” message, allowing the snake to avoid direct conflict and conserve its venom, which is a valuable resource primarily used for hunting prey.
Common Misconceptions About Rattle Segments
A common misconception is that one can determine a rattlesnake’s age by simply counting the number of segments on its rattle. This is inaccurate because new segments are added with each skin shed, not annually. Since shedding frequency is influenced by various environmental and biological factors, the number of segments does not directly correlate to the snake’s age in years. Rattle segments are relatively fragile and can break off due to injury or daily activities, making the count an unreliable indicator of age. A rattlesnake with fewer segments might still be quite old if it has lost some of its older rattle parts.