Support Rattlesnake Conservation

Rattlesnakes are arguably one of the most heavily persecuted groups of animals in the world. Think about all of the false myths you’ve heard about them, the number of stories you’ve heard about people killing these animals, the people who react to the word with immediate disgust—it’s a wonder populations still exist. Many of us learn from a young age to hate and fear these animals, though they are integral to their ecosystems and are declining due to human misconceptions and habitat loss. Taking the time to learn more about rattlesnakes can make a difference and help to change attitudes toward them.

That’s why one of our goals at The Orianne Society is to educate the public about rattlesnakes so we can begin to change the way people think about them. During these education and outreach opportunities, we address a variety of topics that we hope leads to less human persecution of rattlesnakes:

1) Educate adult and children groups on the identification, biology and status of rattlesnakes.

2) Provide local communities an understanding of the values of rattlesnakes.

3) Dispel the many myths around rattlesnakes.

4) Teach snake safety and snake bite treatment.

Rattlesnakes were once seen as an emblem of our country’s independence and of vigilance. Benjamin Franklin said of the rattlesnake, “She never begins an attack, nor, when once engaged, ever surrenders: She is therefore an emblem of magnanimity and true courage… she never wounds ‘til she has generously given notice, even to her enemy, and cautioned him against the danger of treading on her.” Hence the beginning of the motto, “Don’t Tread on Me.”

If you would like to spread a positive message about rattlesnakes and their importance in our world, please consider purchasing a t-shirt for our Rattlesnake Conservation campaign. Wear your shirt with pride to continue the conversation with others in your own community!

For more information about our work with rattlesnakes and other reptiles and amphibians, please visitwww.OrianneSociety.org.