A Herpetologist Lists 2 Deadly Rattlesnakes You Might Find In Your Neighborhood This Spring
With spring comes warmth and greenery, but it also welcomes some of the deadliest rattlesnakes in ... More the world — ready to make the most of the season.
Across much of the United States, spring marks the peak season for snake activity — especially for venomous rattlesnakes you'd be wise to avoid. They spent the colder months tucked away in burrows or beneath rocky outcrops, waiting for the inevitable warmth of spring to arrive.
Now, with rising temperatures signaling the start of mating season and the return of prey, snakes are back on the move — and encounters with humans become far more likely.
In fact, with every 1°C increase in temperature, the odds of a venomous snakebite rise by 5.6%, according to a July 2023 study published in GeoHealth. And in the U.S., those bites are overwhelmingly from rattlesnakes.
Whether you're hiking desert trails in Arizona, gardening in Florida or just walking your dog through tall grass in Texas, rattlesnake encounters are a real and seasonal risk. Most bites aren't fatal, but they can be serious, and a couple of species stand out for their potency, proximity to people and reputation.
In the deserts and suburbs of the American Southwest, one snake is responsible for more domestic run-ins with humans than any other — the western diamondback rattlesnake, or Crotalus atrox.
Easily recognized by its distinct diamond-shaped dorsal markings and alternating black-and-white 'coontail,' this stout-bodied rattlesnake is well adapted to the arid grasslands, rocky hillsides and urban edges of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and beyond.
Western diamondback rattlesnake. Notice the markings on its back and the black and white "coontail"
Unlike its eastern cousin — the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, which holds the title for size — the western diamondback is smaller on average. However, this rattlesnake is also more widespread and more likely to be found near homes, hiking trails and roadways.
During spring and fall, it tends to be active in daylight, while in the heat of summer, it becomes nocturnal, often emerging after dark when temperatures drop. Roads and shaded patios can serve as unexpected resting spots.
Its venom is primarily hemotoxic, causing abdominal pain, swelling and potentially serious tissue damage. The venom also contains hemorrhagic toxins which can cause severe internal bleeding and skeletal muscle damage.
Though less toxic than some rattlesnake species, its relatively large venom yield and readiness to stand its ground when threatened make it a serious medical concern. Immediate medical attention is critical if bitten. Symptoms from the bite can escalate quickly, and untreated bites may become life-threatening within hours.
Known for its distinctive rattle, the western diamondback typically warns before striking. But it's also one of the more defensive rattlesnake species and is less likely to retreat than some of its cousins. When cornered, it will hold its ground, coil and strike if it feels threatened. Encounters can happen suddenly, especially in shaded areas near homes or on sun-warmed roads and trails.
Among the rattlesnakes of the Southwest, the Mojave rattlesnake, or Crotalus scutulatus, stands apart for more than its pale greenish hue. Depending on where you find it, this species may carry one of two wildly different venoms.
One is a neurotoxic cocktail that can cause paralysis, and the other is a hemotoxic blend that destroys tissue and blood vessels. In rare cases, it carries both.
You'll most likely find the Mojave in arid, open terrain across southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and parts of Nevada and Utah. While it tends to avoid dense vegetation, it's been spotted near ranches, roadsides and even residential areas that border desert scrub.
It resembles the western diamondback rattlesnake, but can often be distinguished by a slimmer frame, a greenish tint and less distinctly defined tail bands. The light stripe behind its eye typically angles upward, not down to the mouth.
The Mojave rattlesnake can sometimes be mistaken for the western diamondback. However, the Mojave ... More has a slight greenish tinge that the western diamondback doesn't.
The Mojave rattlesnake is actually quite shy and more likely to flee, but it will strike decisively when surprised or cornered. Its bites are rare, but medically serious, especially in areas where neurotoxic venom predominates.
The neurotoxic venom can impair nerve signaling, leading to progressive weakness and potentially respiratory failure. Hemotoxic variants, by contrast, cause intense pain, swelling and widespread tissue damage. Hybrid venoms may unleash both effects simultaneously, complicating treatment and increasing risk.
Regardless of the type of venom involved, every bite from a Mojave rattlesnake must be promptly treated, as respiratory symptoms may develop even in the absence of major swelling or pain.
Venomous snakes like these might inspire awe in some and terror in others. Take a 2-minute test to see where you stand on the Fear of Animals Scale.
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Forbes
03-04-2025
- Forbes
A Herpetologist Lists 2 Deadly Rattlesnakes You Might Find In Your Neighborhood This Spring
With spring comes warmth and greenery, but it also welcomes some of the deadliest rattlesnakes in ... More the world — ready to make the most of the season. Across much of the United States, spring marks the peak season for snake activity — especially for venomous rattlesnakes you'd be wise to avoid. They spent the colder months tucked away in burrows or beneath rocky outcrops, waiting for the inevitable warmth of spring to arrive. Now, with rising temperatures signaling the start of mating season and the return of prey, snakes are back on the move — and encounters with humans become far more likely. In fact, with every 1°C increase in temperature, the odds of a venomous snakebite rise by 5.6%, according to a July 2023 study published in GeoHealth. And in the U.S., those bites are overwhelmingly from rattlesnakes. Whether you're hiking desert trails in Arizona, gardening in Florida or just walking your dog through tall grass in Texas, rattlesnake encounters are a real and seasonal risk. Most bites aren't fatal, but they can be serious, and a couple of species stand out for their potency, proximity to people and reputation. In the deserts and suburbs of the American Southwest, one snake is responsible for more domestic run-ins with humans than any other — the western diamondback rattlesnake, or Crotalus atrox. Easily recognized by its distinct diamond-shaped dorsal markings and alternating black-and-white 'coontail,' this stout-bodied rattlesnake is well adapted to the arid grasslands, rocky hillsides and urban edges of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and beyond. Western diamondback rattlesnake. Notice the markings on its back and the black and white "coontail" Unlike its eastern cousin — the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, which holds the title for size — the western diamondback is smaller on average. However, this rattlesnake is also more widespread and more likely to be found near homes, hiking trails and roadways. During spring and fall, it tends to be active in daylight, while in the heat of summer, it becomes nocturnal, often emerging after dark when temperatures drop. Roads and shaded patios can serve as unexpected resting spots. Its venom is primarily hemotoxic, causing abdominal pain, swelling and potentially serious tissue damage. The venom also contains hemorrhagic toxins which can cause severe internal bleeding and skeletal muscle damage. Though less toxic than some rattlesnake species, its relatively large venom yield and readiness to stand its ground when threatened make it a serious medical concern. Immediate medical attention is critical if bitten. Symptoms from the bite can escalate quickly, and untreated bites may become life-threatening within hours. Known for its distinctive rattle, the western diamondback typically warns before striking. But it's also one of the more defensive rattlesnake species and is less likely to retreat than some of its cousins. When cornered, it will hold its ground, coil and strike if it feels threatened. Encounters can happen suddenly, especially in shaded areas near homes or on sun-warmed roads and trails. Among the rattlesnakes of the Southwest, the Mojave rattlesnake, or Crotalus scutulatus, stands apart for more than its pale greenish hue. Depending on where you find it, this species may carry one of two wildly different venoms. One is a neurotoxic cocktail that can cause paralysis, and the other is a hemotoxic blend that destroys tissue and blood vessels. In rare cases, it carries both. You'll most likely find the Mojave in arid, open terrain across southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and parts of Nevada and Utah. While it tends to avoid dense vegetation, it's been spotted near ranches, roadsides and even residential areas that border desert scrub. It resembles the western diamondback rattlesnake, but can often be distinguished by a slimmer frame, a greenish tint and less distinctly defined tail bands. The light stripe behind its eye typically angles upward, not down to the mouth. The Mojave rattlesnake can sometimes be mistaken for the western diamondback. However, the Mojave ... More has a slight greenish tinge that the western diamondback doesn't. The Mojave rattlesnake is actually quite shy and more likely to flee, but it will strike decisively when surprised or cornered. Its bites are rare, but medically serious, especially in areas where neurotoxic venom predominates. The neurotoxic venom can impair nerve signaling, leading to progressive weakness and potentially respiratory failure. Hemotoxic variants, by contrast, cause intense pain, swelling and widespread tissue damage. Hybrid venoms may unleash both effects simultaneously, complicating treatment and increasing risk. Regardless of the type of venom involved, every bite from a Mojave rattlesnake must be promptly treated, as respiratory symptoms may develop even in the absence of major swelling or pain. Venomous snakes like these might inspire awe in some and terror in others. Take a 2-minute test to see where you stand on the Fear of Animals Scale.
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Yahoo
Toxic dust on Mars could make astronauts sick
A unique set of risks and challenges await the first astronauts on Mars. Deadly solar radiation, nighttime temperatures regularly dropping lower than -100 degrees Fahrenheit, and an unbreathable atmosphere are just a few of the hurdles that require addressing. But recent research suggests yet another worry: toxic Martian dust. Cameras aboard NASA's Mars rovers like Perseverance and Curiosity have extensively documented the planet's barren, rocky landscape over the years. However, the image resolution often fails to showcase the massive amounts of powdery dust that also blankets the terrain. These microscopic grains—known as regolith—are much more fine than the standard dust particles found on Earth. Not only that, but previous analysis shows that Martian regolith is more coarse than most Earth particulates. This combination makes it more abrasive and damaging if ingested or inhaled, much like asbestos. In a study published in February in the journal GeoHealth, scientists reviewed existing geological surveys of Mars, while focusing on 10 documented materials already well-known for their health hazards. Naturally occurring chlorine-based chemicals known as perchlorates, for example, can damage thyroid glands and lead to aplastic anemia, in which bone marrow fails to produce new blood cells. Meanwhile, the abundant amounts of silica on Mars are more than enough to cause silicosis, an incurable respiratory disease previously common among stoneworkers. Additional regolith particles include iron oxides and gypsum, as well as trace toxic metals including arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, and chromium. These are collectively associated with a host of other problems such as gastrointestinal inflammation, cancer, and weakened immune systems. A spacesuit will protect astronauts during excursions into the hostile outside environment, but they can only do so much once they return to base. An average speck of Martian dust measures around 3 micrometers (about the size of a mold spore) and rarely exceeds 8 μm (10 times smaller than a sugar grain). This makes it much more difficult to clean a spacesuit, much less keep it from piling up in living quarters or back inside a spacecraft. 'Exposure to martian dust may come from dermal exposure, ocular contact, ingestion, or inhalation through oral and nasal cavities,' the study authors wrote. And once ingested, much of that Martian dust won't be going anywhere quickly. 'The majority of this dust will likely penetrate the physical innate immune defenses of the respiratory tract as mucus in the lungs is not able to expel dust particles that have a diameter of less than 5 μm,' they explained. 'Thus, dust on Mars is more likely to cause lung irritation, absorb into the bloodstream, and lead to diseases in astronauts.' While some of the predicted effects may remain asymptomatic, many others could become life-threatening. The makeup of Martian regolith isn't necessarily a dealbreaker for astronauts, however. Speaking with CNN, study co-author and University of Southern California medical student Justin Wang stated his belief that these are solvable problems. 'While the dust on Mars isn't going to be the most dangerous part of a mission to the Red Planet, it's definitely a hazard that can be harmful to astronauts, yet easily avoidable given we're properly prepared for it,' Wang said. Wang and colleagues suggest that exposure mitigation be prioritized in mission planning, along with the inclusion of supplements to prevent diseases and sufficient treatment regimens for worst-case scenarios. After all, the nearest hospital will likely be around 140 million miles away.
CNN
30-03-2025
- CNN
Toxic dust on Mars would present serious hazard for astronauts
Toxic dust on Mars would make a future mission to the red planet extremely hazardous for astronauts and require significant countermeasures, new research suggests. Substances such as silica, gypsum, perchlorates and nanophase iron oxides contained in Martian dust could have life-threatening effects on members of a potential Mars mission, according to a study published in the journal GeoHealth last month. 'The biggest danger is the risk to astronauts' lungs. Since the dust is so fine, it is expected to remain in astronauts' lungs and some of it will be absorbed into the bloodstream,' study co-author Justin Wang, a medical student at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC), told CNN on Wednesday. 'Astronauts are already at risk for pulmonary fibrosis due to the radiation exposure in spaceflight, and many of the hazards including silica and iron oxides can cause pulmonary disease that could be superimposed.' Wang also highlighted concerns that perchlorates – chemical compounds that have been detected at toxic levels in Martian soil – could cause thyroid dysfunction and aplastic anemia – a condition in which the body stops producing enough blood cells. Given the length of time it would take to return to Earth from Mars, as well as a delay in communicating with our home planet, the key is to avoid dust exposure through dust filtration, cabin cleaning and the use of electrostatic repulsion devices, according to the study. Nonetheless, Wang is optimistic that the toxic dust doesn't make a Mars mission an impossibility. 'While the dust on Mars isn't going to be the most dangerous part of a mission to the Red Planet, it's definitely a hazard that can be harmful to astronauts, yet easily avoidable given we're properly prepared for it,' he said. Study co-author Brian Hynek, a professor of geological sciences at the University of Boulder, highlighted the wider impacts of Martian dust. 'It's constantly falling from the sky and covering everything. Every few years there are globe-encompassing storms that lay down a thick coat,' he told CNN, underlining that spacecraft, vehicles, solar panels and other equipment 'will need constant attention to keep functioning.' 'Our rovers have already experienced this with loss of scientific instruments or the entire mission due to solar panels rendered too dusty to charge the batteries,' Hynek said. 'These secondary considerations will have a significant impact on humans as well.' Julia Cartwright, an independent research fellow at the University of Leicester's Institute for Space, who wasn't involved in the study, told CNN that dust mitigation is a big issue for space exploration. 'As the authors have highlighted – the dust really does get everywhere, and it behaves a bit differently to dust on Earth. Here, most dust and particles go through their own transportation journeys and tend to be quite rounded when you look at it under the microscope as they get worn down gradually over time,' she said. 'By comparison, on the Moon and Mars, you're dealing with very sharp, pointy particles which haven't had this same activity. This is a problem if they are in the air that you are breathing – sharp particles are more likely to cause irritation to soft membranes, which is where you can run into issues with your lungs.' Cartwright said the process could be likened to being exposed to asbestos, a fibrous mineral that was used in building materials until research found that it caused health conditions including lung cancer, mesothelioma and pulmonary heart disease. She also highlighted issues surrounding the use of filters to clean the air of 'unpleasant elements and compounds' such as chromium, arsenic and cadmium. 'Assuming that you are able to filter these out, you would still need to have a strategy for changing out all of the filters that you would have to breathe through and you would need to have a load of those filters on board the spacecraft,' said Cartwright. And Jonathan Eastwood, a professor of space physics at Imperial College London, agreed that sophisticated solutions will be needed to overcome the hazards posed by Martian dust. 'The distance from the Earth to Mars means that rapid evacuation back to Earth is ruled out, and so it's necessary to have a complete medical capability locally on the surface,' he told CNN. 'As the authors point out, solving this is a highly interdisciplinary problem where medical, engineering and scientific disciplines must converge to find a solution.' Natalya Zavina-James, senior exploration research manager at the UK Space Agency, told CNN that the 'study illustrates the breadth of considerations needed to protect astronauts' health.' 'It's great to begin to see studies, like this one, addressing the human health aspect of Mars exploration,' she said. 'This is a critical aspect of the horizon goal, with huge ethical implications that must be considered in depth before crewed missions take off.'
