The rattles at the end of a rattlesnake's tail are composed of interlocking rings of keratin, producing a hissing sound when vibrated to deter predators.
Rattlesnakes naturally add a segment to their rattles with each molt, but tail length doesn't always indicate age due to segments breaking off over time.
Arizona is home to numerous rattlesnake species, including the western diamond-backed and sidewinder rattlesnakes, with special protection provided for some species.
Rattlesnakes lack eardrums but detect vibrations through their jawbone, utilizing an inner ear structure connected to their jaw to sense environmental cues.
While rattlesnake bites are uncommon, they can be dangerous if not treated promptly, with less than 1% resulting in death, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical attention immediately.
Rattlesnakes possess hollow, hinged fangs that lie flat against their upper jaw when the mouth is closed, only springing forward when striking to inject venom.
Rattlesnakes have vertical pupils aiding in depth perception, facilitating their ambush hunting strategy, as observed in species with similar eye structures.
Female rattlesnakes give live births after incubating eggs internally for about 90 days, with newborns emerging fully developed and wrapped in a membrane that they puncture to breathe.