rattlesnake

A rattlesnake is a type of venomous snake known for the distinctive rattling sound it produces with a segmented tail. Native to the Americas, they are typically medium to large in size, with patterns that help them blend into their environment. Rattlesnakes use their venom primarily to immobilize prey and for defense. When threatened, they shake their tail to create a rattling noise alerting potential threats to stay away. They are important to their ecosystems as predators of rodents and other small animals. Despite their dangerous reputation, rattlesnakes generally avoid humans and will bite only if provoked.