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The correct term is a 'dry bite.' The prime purpose of the venom is to obtain prey. If an animal is much too large to eat but poses a threat to the snake, the rattler will sometimes strike out and bite as a warning but not inject venom. The try to conserve venom for their prey and do not waste it on non-prey animals. However, do not count on all rattlesnakes being good natured.
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Why do rattlesnakes have rattles?
Rattlesnakes have rattles to warn predators to stay away from them or they will bite. Good question!
Do baby rattlesnakes go inside their mother when threatened?
No. Baby rattlesnakes live on their own. They bite when threatened.
How do rattlesnakes capture prey?
Rattlesnakes ambush small prey with a bite and inject venom that quickly kills the prey.
Would rattlesnakes harm people?
They will bite if stepped on or handled.
Do rattlesnakes eat their prey in one bite?
Yes, they swallow it...
How strong are a rattlesnakes fangs to bite people?
Strong enough.
How many rattlesnakes are venomos?
All of them are but they rarely bite anyone
Why do rattlesnakes bite without venom?
The main purpose of the venom is to obtain food so rattlesnakes do not want to waste it on defense. They will sometimes give a dry bite as a simple warning to "back off."
Is the rattlesnake aggressive?
Rattlesnakes do not actually want to bite you. They rattle the tip of their tail as a warning to stay away, and if the enemy does not leave, it will bite. Rattlesnakes with babies are especially aggressive, so they may bite right away.
Why can california king snakes eat rattlesnakes?
they have a big mouth and can sufficate it when it tries to eat it
Will rattlesnakes bite when drinking?
If a rattlesnake is disturbed or threatened while drinking water it can quickly strike out and bite whatever is causing the threat.
Can rattlesnakes control their bite?
Young rattlesnakes have little control of their venom and are prone to injecting all they have when they bite. Adults can control the amount of venom and do not like to waste it as it may mean going hungry for a few weeks until they replenish the supply. Sometimes they will give a dry bite as a warning and inject no venom.
