Probing, Assessment, and Management during Interactions between Ground Squirrels and Rattlesnakes

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.1990.tb00432.x
• Publication Date: 2010-05-09T17:56:59Z
• Authors: Matthew P. Rowe; Donald H. Owings
• Keywords: Ground squirrel; Vulnerability; Crotalus

Abstract The predator‐prey relationship between California ground squirrels ( Spermophilus beecheyi ) and northern Pacific rattlesnakes Crotalus viridis is a useful system for exploring conflict assessment. Rattlesnakes are major predators of squirrel pups, but pose less significant threat to adult squirrels. Adults approach, harass, even attack in defense their pups. Two factors that may influence risk both snake during encounters the size body temperature rattlesnake. We used high‐speed video analyze strikes various sizes tested at different temperatures. Results indicate warmer snakes more dangerous because they strike with higher velocity, greater accuracy, hesitation. Similarly, larger can farther speeds, keep fangs embedded longer. Thus, would benefit from extracting information about rattlesnake's temperature. converse our results cooler, smaller be vulnerable. These could mitigate by avoiding adversaries minimizing cues divulge weaknesses. Such tactics might explain active probing direct rattlesnakes, which function overcome snake's resistance disclosing its vulnerability.