Northern Pacific rattlesnake, in Idaho. Rattlesnakes are one of the most demonized animals in North America. These snakes are always the "bad guys" and yes, they're dangerous, but they're SO misunderstood. They do not chase you, they do not want to bite, in fact they don't even want to be seen. They aren't aggressive, they're defensive! They keep to themselves, and just want to be left alone. Here's the stats... far less than 1% of people who get bit, die. In fact it's closer to 1 in 600 people (0.17%), and about 33% of all bites don't even inject venom. Why? Because venom is very costly to make; it's takes a ton of calories/energy, so the snake doesn't want to use it if it doesn't have to. But if you're bitten, it's simple... call 911, stay calm, and get medical attention. That's it! Don't mess with the wound, don't use a tourniquet, just get yourself to help. Anyways... I LOVE these snakes, and all snakes. Rattlesnakes get very defensive when I first meet them, of course, but this fascinating thing happens after the snake knows I'm not going to hurt it, it's like a switch flips and they immediately change their behavior and become calm, and just want to quietly leave. Then it becomes much easier to handle them, and show them to people I'm with. I've moved dozens off the road, and I even handled this snake (which you should NEVER do). Snake body language just makes sense to me. But this rattlesnake was interesting... even while gently moving it outside of the sage brush and handling it, it never stuck at me, or even rattled. If you see one, admire it from a distance. They're worth admiring, they're worth respecting, and they're worth loving.