256 
NATURAL HISTORY 
RATTLE SNAKE. 
The Rattle Snake is bred in this country, 
and in no part of the old world. Some are 
as thick as a man’s leg, and six feet in 
length ; but the usual size is from four to five 
feet. In most particulars it resembles the 
viper. It differs, however, in having a large 
scale over each eye. They are of an orange 
and blackish colour on the back, and of an 
ash colour on the belly, inclining to lead. 
But that which distinguishes them from all 
other animals, is their rattle, an instrument 
lodged in their tail, by which they make 
such a loud, rattling noise, when they move, 
that their approach may be perceived, and 
the danger avoided. Their bite produces 
death in a few hours. 
