Why do canebrakes bite people?

Answer 1

The canebrake rattlesnake is a mild tempered, venomous pit viper. To warn any animal or human that stumbles upon or corners it, this rattlesnake will first try to escape. If it cannot escape, it may vibrate its rattle (at the end of the tail) and strike repeatedly with its mouth either opened or closed. If neither of these techniques works, the rattlesnake may resort to biting. The strike of a rattlesnake is lightning quick.

For more information, check:

http://www.jaxzoo.org/animals/biofacts/CanebrakeRattlesnake.asp