A wildlife expert, Coyote Peterson, and his team explore the desert southwest in search of the western diamondback rattlesnake, considered one of the most venomous snakes in the US. After searching for prey species like kangaroo rats, they finally find a massive western diamondback rattlesnake. Coyote Peterson carefully handles the snake, showcasing its unique features, such as its heat-sensing pits and rattling tail. He educates viewers about the snake's habits, venom, and importance in the ecosystem. Throughout the encounter, Coyote Peterson emphasizes the importance of respecting and not provoking the snake, demonstrating that it is not an aggressive animal. The snake is eventually released back into the wild, and Coyote Peterson advises viewers on how to safely interact with wildlife and appreciate these animals from a distance.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The western diamondback rattlesnake is commonly found in the deserts of the Southwest.
2. The snake's rattle is made of keratin, the same material as human fingernails and hair.
3. The rattle is composed of individual buttons that form when the snake sheds its skin.
4. It's not possible to determine a rattlesnake's age by the number of buttons on its rattle.
5. Rattlesnakes can launch their bodies forward two-thirds of their own length when striking.
6. The western diamondback rattlesnake is a nocturnal species, but can be active in the early morning or just before sunset.
7. The snakes rely on the sun to heat up their bodies before hunting at night.
8. They are opportunistic and will strike if something comes close to them.
9. The western diamondback rattlesnake specializes in eating rodents.
10. The snake's venom is highly toxic and can cause necrosis.
11. Antivenom is available for western diamondback rattlesnake bites.
12. Most rattlesnake bites occur when people accidentally step too close to the snake or try to kill it.
13. The snakes are not typically aggressive and will flee if given the opportunity.
14. Rattlesnakes play an important role in balancing the desert ecosystem.
15. In Arizona, wildlife removal services or local fire departments can be contacted to safely remove and relocate a rattlesnake from a residence.