According to National Geographic the eastern hognose snake (Heterodon platirhinos) is a species of snake that resembles a rattlesnake but doesn’t have a rattle. The snake is found in the southeastern United States from Virginia to Florida and west to Texas and Oklahoma. Adults grow to an average length of 20 to 35 inches (50 to 90 centimeters).
The eastern hognose snake is a heavy-bodied snake with a wide head. It is patterned with dark brown black or reddish-brown blotches on a light brown or gray background. The blotches become rings near the tail. The snake has a upturned nose which is how it got its name.
The eastern hognose snake is non-venomous and not considered dangerous to humans. It feeds primarily on toads but will also eat frogs lizards and small mammals.
The eastern hognose snake is a relatively common snake but it is not often seen because it is shy and secretive. When threatened the snake will hiss and flatten its head and neck in an attempt to look like a cobra. If that doesn’t work the snake will play dead. It will roll onto its back open its mouth and release a foul-smelling anal secretion.
What does a rattlesnake look like?
A rattlesnake typically has a brown tan or gray body with darker brown bands around it.
Its belly is usually white.
It has a triangular shaped head and a rattle at the end of its tail.
Where do most rattlesnakes live?
Most rattlesnakes live in the western United States but they can also be found in the southeastern and midwestern United States.
What kind of habitat do rattlesnakes prefer?
Rattlesnakes prefer habitats with rocks and trees where they can hide from predators and bask in the sun.
What do rattlesnakes eat?
Rattlesnakes eat small mammals such as rabbits squirrels and mice.
How do rattlesnakes kill their prey?
Rattlesnakes kill their prey by biting them and injecting them with venom.
How long can a rattlesnake grow?
Most rattlesnakes can grow to be between 3 and 5 feet long but the largest recorded rattlesnake was more than 8 feet long.
How often do rattlesnakes shed their skin?
Rattlesnakes shed their skin once or twice a year.
What is the average lifespan of a rattlesnake?
Most rattlesnakes live to be between 10 and 20 years old.
How many rattles does a rattlesnake have?
A rattlesnake will typically have 1 to 10 rattles depending on its age.
What is the purpose of a rattlesnake’s rattle?
The rattle is used as a warning to predators and to help the snake locate prey.
Do all rattlesnakes have venom?
All rattlesnakes have venom but not all of them are capable of injecting it into prey.
How dangerous is a rattlesnake’s venom?
Rattlesnake venom can be dangerous to humans but most bites are not fatal.
What should you do if you are bitten by a rattlesnake?
If you are bitten by a rattlesnake you should seek medical attention immediately.
Are rattlesnakes considered endangered?
No rattlesnakes are not considered endangered.
What is the biggest threat to rattlesnakes?
The biggest threat to rattlesnakes is habitat loss.
