Rattlesnakes: Pretty to Look At, Dangerous to Touch
Some rattlesnakes have pretty stripes or patterns that can look interesting. But even if they look nice, their venom can make people and pets very sick. It is important to be careful and stay safe.
What a rattlesnake looks like
- They can have stripes, bands, or spots.
- They have a rattle on the end of their tail that can make a buzzing sound.
- They can hide in grass, rocks, or under bushes because their colors help them blend in.
Why venom is dangerous (in simple words)
Venom is like a strong poison the snake uses to catch food. If venom gets into a person or pet, it can hurt their body. It can make the bite area swell, hurt a lot, and sometimes make the person very sick. That is why bites need a grown-up and a doctor right away.
What to do if you see a rattlesnake
- Stop and stay very still for a second. Don’t run toward it.
- Move away slowly and quietly. Give it lots of space — at least 10 feet (about 3 meters) or more.
- Tell a grown-up right away. Let the grown-up call animal control or another helper if needed.
- Never touch, poke, or try to pick up a snake, even if it looks small or pretty.
What to do if someone is bitten
- Tell a grown-up to call 911 or go to the emergency room right away.
- Keep the person calm and still. Try to keep the bitten part lower than the heart if you can.
- Do NOT put ice on the bite, do NOT cut the bite, and do NOT try to suck out the venom.
- If you are near a grown-up, they will tell a doctor what happened so the person can get medicine called antivenom if needed.
How to stay safer outside
- Watch where you step and don’t put your hands under rocks or into holes.
- Wear shoes and long pants when walking in areas with snakes.
- Keep pets on a leash so they don’t run into a snake.
- Tell a grown-up if you see a snake so they can help keep everyone safe.
Remember: Pretty stripes do not mean a snake is safe to touch. Always tell an adult and give the snake lots of space.