Through the Save The Snakes Pacific States Grant Program, Save The Snakes supported M. Cale Morris to investigate common misconceptions about rattlesnake behavior and venom in Southern California. The project examines how rattlesnakes respond to accidental human encounters and whether baby rattlesnakes differ from adults in their defensive behavior and venom expenditure. By generating research-based evidence that can be incorporated into public education, the project aims to improve understanding of rattlesnakes, reduce unnecessary fear and persecution, and promote safer coexistence between people and snakes.
Project Title:
Rattlesnake Behavior and Venom: Testing Common Misconceptions to Promote Human–Rattlesnake Coexistence
Project Summary:
M. Cale Morris’s project investigates two widespread misconceptions about rattlesnakes: that they are aggressive and will chase people, and that baby rattlesnakes are more dangerous than adults because they supposedly cannot control their venom expenditure.
The research will focus on two common Southern California species, the Southern Pacific Rattlesnake and Red Diamond Rattlesnake. Field experiments will examine how adult and newborn rattlesnakes respond to simulated accidental encounters using a controlled artificial-leg methodology. Behavioral responses will be recorded and compared between age groups and species.
The project will also investigate venom expenditure in baby rattlesnakes during defensive and predatory biting contexts, using laboratory-based assays to examine how venom use varies between different types of encounters.
The research builds on Morris’s previous work investigating rattlesnake responses to human encounters, as well as recent research examining the origins and prevalence of the baby-rattlesnake myth. Findings will contribute to his doctoral research and are intended for publication in peer-reviewed journals and integration into public outreach programs.
By providing evidence-based information about rattlesnake behavior and venom, the project aims to address misconceptions that can contribute to fear, unnecessary killing, and unsafe interactions. The resulting research and educational materials will help communicate the ecological importance of rattlesnakes while providing the public with a more accurate understanding of their behavior and relative risks.
Aims and Objectives:
- Investigate Rattlesnake Responses to Human Encounters
Conduct controlled field experiments with Southern Pacific and Red Diamond Rattlesnakes to document their behavioral responses to simulated accidental human encounters.
The study will compare responses between adult and newborn rattlesnakes and document behaviors such as striking, fleeing, and other defensive responses.
- Test the Baby Rattlesnake Myth
Investigate whether newborn rattlesnakes behave differently from adults during defensive encounters and whether they expend more venom during bites.
The research will contribute evidence to the ongoing scientific and public discussion surrounding the widespread belief that baby rattlesnakes are inherently more dangerous than adults.
- Examine Venom Expenditure
Use controlled laboratory experiments and protein assays to examine venom expenditure by baby rattlesnakes during different defensive and predatory biting contexts.
These experiments will provide additional data on how venom expenditure varies according to the circumstances of an encounter.
- Generate Evidence for Conservation Education
Translate research findings into accessible information that can be incorporated into rattlesnake education and public outreach programs.
The project will address common misconceptions about rattlesnake aggression and venom while communicating the ecological importance of rattlesnakes and encouraging safer human–snake interactions.
- Disseminate Research Findings
Publish the findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals, incorporate the research into Morris’s doctoral dissertation, and share the results through university and personal social media platforms and public education programs.
The research also has potential to reach wider audiences through Loma Linda University’s public relations and media networks.
Goal:
The ultimate goal of this project is to improve public understanding of rattlesnake behavior and reduce misconceptions that can contribute to fear, persecution, and unsafe human–rattlesnake interactions.
Rattlesnakes are important components of Southern California ecosystems, yet public perceptions are often influenced by persistent myths about aggression and venom. By rigorously testing these claims and communicating the findings through both scientific publications and public education, the project seeks to provide communities with accurate information about how rattlesnakes actually respond to humans.
The project builds on an established body of research and education by M. Cale Morris and Dr. William K. Hayes. Previous work has demonstrated that controlled research and educational outreach can provide evidence-based alternatives to common misconceptions about rattlesnakes.
The findings will provide additional scientific evidence that can be used by educators, conservation organizations, and wildlife professionals to communicate about rattlesnake behavior and safety. By improving public understanding, the project aims to support more informed decisions when people encounter rattlesnakes and encourage coexistence with these important native predators.
Support Snake Conservation:
M. Cale Morris’s project is a recipient of the 2026 Save The Snakes Pacific States Grant Program. Save The Snakes Grants are made possible because of the generosity of compassionate people and organizations who are inspired and dedicated to protect threatened snake populations and mitigate human-snake conflict around the world. Please donate today to help Save The Snakes support even more snake conservationists to continue their vital work. Thank you for your support!
