[oceanbaby]

I can't find the answer to this question anywhere. My son is starting to keep a notebook in a car with all the questions he asks me while we're driving that I don't know how to answer. This was one from the other day.

I know there are different types of rattlesnakes, but I was hoping to give him a ballpark answer. I think he's trying to figure out if he can run faster than a rattlesnake.

 

[Needle in the Hay]

Yeah I had a hard time finding info too. Here are a couple of things I read, and I saw it written on a few other sites the same thing about the speed of a sidewinder rattlesnake.

Because of its unique method of locomotion, sidewinding, the sidewinder rattlesnake can reach top speeds of about 3 miles per hour, which is slower than we walk, but faster than other rattlesnakes.

Snakes can move fairly rapidly for a human on foot, but not at truly high speeds. Top speed for most snakes probably is about five to eight miles per hour.

The second bit of info came from this site which is a collection of snake myths, each one followed by the truth (hopefully).

I would say your DS could outrun a rattlesnake handily though let's hope he never has to.

 

[elizawill]

i don't have the specific answer...but - yes, your son can outrun a rattlesnake most likely. rattlesnakes aren't known for speed, but for camouflaging themselves. they hide in their environment waiting for prey. humans are only bit in the misfortune of stepping on or near a rattlesnake. rattlesnakes don't seek out humans at all. hth

 

[Geerbabe]

Was your son thinking of how fast the snake can slither or how fast they can strike? I believe the latter would be much faster. Some snakes strike so fast you can barely see them.

 

[OkiMom]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Geerbabe Was your son thinking of how fast the snake can slither or how fast they can strike? I believe the latter would be much faster. Some snakes strike so fast you can barely see them.

That.. If you are far enough away from the snake it would be easy to outrun it. However, if you are within striking distance you odds aren't that good. Its better to find someone to get the snake away from you.. And like I like to tell people, its best if you stay away from snakes in the wild and please please don't try to handle them .

 

[oceanbaby]

Thanks for the replies. I'll be sure to explain the striking vs. slithering speed!