Five Things to Know About Rattlesnakes and Their Babies

So far this year, more than 74 rattlesnake bites to humans have been reported to the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center. Based at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, the center serves the entire state of Arizona with the exception of Maricopa County, providing free and confidential poison and medication information to callers around the clock.

The center advises anyone who might cross paths with rattlesnakes to be 
aware of these five things:

1 | Baby rattlesnakes range in length from 6 to 12 inches and are easily camouflaged by brush and grass.

2 | Baby rattlesnakes are rattleless until they first shed their skins, so there will be no infamous “chica-chica” sound before they strike.

3 | Despite their impish size, baby snakes have enough venom to be very dangerous if they bite a human.

4 | Adult rattlesnakes do not always rattle a warning before or while they 
are biting.

5 | It’s a good idea to call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222 if you notice an unidentified small cut or wound, even if you feel no pain. Because there may be no telltale rattle, people can be bitten without knowing what has happened until they notice their symptoms and attribute them to a snakebite.