DOCSLIB.ORG

Observations on the Chemosensory Responses of the Midget Faded

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
Observations on the Chemosensory Responses of the Midget Faded Observations on the chemosensory responses of the midget faded rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus concolor): discrimination of envenomated prey in a type II venom species Anthony J. Saviola & Stephen P. Mackessy Journal of Ethology ISSN 0289-0771 Volume 35 Number 2 J Ethol (2017) 35:245-250 DOI 10.1007/s10164-017-0511-2 1 23 Your article is protected by copyright and all rights are held exclusively by Japan Ethological Society and Springer Japan. This e-offprint is for personal use only and shall not be self-archived in electronic repositories. If you wish to self-archive your article, please use the accepted manuscript version for posting on your own website. You may further deposit the accepted manuscript version in any repository, provided it is only made publicly available 12 months after official publication or later and provided acknowledgement is given to the original source of publication and a link is inserted to the published article on Springer's website. The link must be accompanied by the following text: "The final publication is available at link.springer.com”. 1 23 Author's personal copy J Ethol (2017) 35:245–250 DOI 10.1007/s10164-017-0511-2 SHORT COMMUNICATION Observations on the chemosensory responses of the midget faded rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus concolor): discrimination of envenomated prey in a type II venom species 1,2 1 Anthony J. Saviola • Stephen P. Mackessy Received: 26 October 2016 / Accepted: 25 February 2017 / Published online: 3 March 2017 Ó Japan Ethological Society and Springer Japan 2017 Abstract Rattlesnakes use prey chemical cues for ambush type II venomous species can also discriminate between E site selection and for relocating envenomated (E) prey and NE chemical cues. following a predatory strike. The ability to discriminate between E and non-envenomated (NE) prey cues has been Keywords Behavior Á Chemical cues Á Chemosensory Á widely studied in rattlesnake species that produce type I Disintegrins Á Predation Á Tongue flicking Á Viper venoms, which show high levels of snake venom metal- loproteinase (SVMP) activity and low lethal toxicity [lethal dose which kills 50% of test animals (LD50) [1.0 lg/g]. Introduction However, E vs. NE prey discrimination studies have not been conducted on rattlesnake species that produce a type Research on squamate feeding strategies and prey recog- II venom that consists of low SVMP activity and high nition strongly indicates that many snakes and lizards have lethal toxicity (LD50\1.0 lg/g). In the current study, long- the ability to discriminate between chemical cues of dif- term captive Crotalus oreganus concolor, which produce a ferent prey (Burghardt 1970; Cooper et al. 1990; Clark type II venom, were tested for their ability to discriminate 2004; Saviola et al. 2012a). This chemosensory response between chemical cues of natural (Sceloporus undulatus may be innate (Mushinsky and Lotz 1980; Holding et al. and Peromyscus maniculatus) and non-natural (Hemi- 2016) or based on feeding experience (Burghardt et al. dactylus frenatus and Mus musculus) prey cues, as well as 2000), and it often results in fluctuating tongue flick rates for their ability to discriminate between E and NE mouse towards select prey cues. In squamates, tongue flicking is a carcasses, when prey envenomation occurred by a con- stimulus-seeking behavior and the main process for deliv- specific. Snakes showed significant levels of tongue flick- ering volatile and non-volatile cues to the vomeronasal ing towards the chemical extracts of P. maniculatus and M. organ (Halpern 1992; Schwenk 1995). Tongue flicking can musculus, suggesting that C. oreganus concolor exhibit be highly variable, and elevated in response to visual- both innate and experience-based plasticity in response to thermal stimuli (Chiszar et al. 1981; Saviola et al. 2011), prey chemical cues. In addition, C. oreganus concolor were vibratory cues (Saviola et al. 2012b), or chemical cues able to discriminate between E and NE prey sources, when (Burghardt 1970; Clark 2004; Saviola et al. 2010; Smith envenomation occurred by a conspecific, indicating that a et al. 2015), and it is often correlated with squamate for- aging ecology and prey preference (Cooper 1994, 1995, 2008). & Anthony J. Saviola Rattlesnakes exhibit multiple sensory modalities during [email protected]; predation, utilizing chemical stimuli to select ambush sites [email protected] (Roth et al. 1999; Clark 2004) and visual-thermal stimuli to 1 School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern deliver the envenomating strike (Hayes and Duvall 1991). Colorado, Greeley, CO, USA Following the release of prey, rattlesnakes then return to a 2 Present Address: Medical Laboratory and Radiation Sciences, reliance on chemical cues to relocate the envenomated University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA (E) carcass (Chiszar et al. 1977; Parker and Kardong 2005). 123 Author's personal copy 246 J Ethol (2017) 35:245–250 This ability to relocate E prey and discriminate between E discrimination (Saviola et al. 2013), appear to be expressed and non-envenomated (NE) prey cues has been thoroughly at significantly higher concentrations in venoms of species studied (Dullemeijer 1961; Duvall et al. 1978; Chiszar with type I venoms (see Calvete et al. 2009, 2012). et al. 1992, 1999, 2008; Greenbaum et al. 2003; Parker and Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the Kardong 2005). Rattlesnakes and other pit vipers (Chiszar chemosensory responses of C. oreganus concolor, which et al. 1992; Greenbaum et al. 2003) respond with increased produces a type II venom, and test whether this species can tongue flicking towards E prey when envenomation occurs discriminate between E and NE prey when envenomation by a conspecific, a closely related heterospecific (Duvall occurs by a conspecific. et al. 1978; Chiszar et al. 2008), or when lyophilized venom is manually injected into a previously euthanized mouse (Chiszar et al. 1999). Interestingly, rattlesnakes are Materials and methods unable to discriminate between E or NE carcasses when venom is painted on the integument of prey, indicating that Animals venom must be injected into tissue for chemical cue dis- crimination to occur (Chiszar et al. 1992). Further, when The subjects were five long-term captive adult C. oreganus testing responses of the western diamondback rattlesnake concolor, and all were feeding every 10–14 days on pre- (Crotalus atrox) to mice injected with fractionated venom, killed NSA mice (M. musculus). Mice were culls from the snakes were only able to discriminate between E and NE University of Northern Colorado Animal Research Facility cues when prey was injected with the venom peak con- and were euthanized by CO2 asphyxiation and frozen at taining the crotatroxin disintegrins (Saviola et al. 2013). -20 °C until feeding. Snakes were housed individually in This work identified these proteins as the ‘‘relocator’’ glass aquaria (61.0 9 41.0 9 44.5 cm) containing a paper molecule permitting successful recognition of E prey. floor, water bowls, and hide boxes, and maintained on a The midget-faded rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus con- 12-h:12-h light:dark cycle and provided a thermal range of color) is a small (adult \700 mm snout-vent length) ter- 26 ± 1 °C. restrial rattlesnake native to extreme southcentral Wyoming, northeastern Utah, and western Colorado. This Chemical cue discrimination species feeds primarily on lizards, although small mam- mals have also been documented in their diet (Parker and To test the ability of C. o concolor to discriminate between Anderson 2007). Unlike many rattlesnake species that chemical cues of different prey, each snake was tested to undergo an ontogenetic shift in venom composition from five scent sources: distilled water (control), and extracts of higher toxicity and low snake venom metalloproteinase house gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) and lab mouse (M. (SVMP) activity in neonates, to decreased toxicity and high musculus), non-natural prey for C. oreganus concolor, and SVMP activity in adults [type I venom (Mackessy extracts of prairie lizard (Sceloporus undulatus) and deer 2008, 2010)], the venom of C. oreganus concolor appears mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), which represent prey to be paedomorphic (Mackessy et al. 2003), with high that are naturally encountered by this species (Parker and toxicity/low SVMP activity carried into adulthood. Adult Anderson 2007). Extracts were prepared by soaking live C. oreganus concolor, therefore, produce a type II venom prey in distilled water at a ratio of 1 mL of distilled water that exhibits low SVMP activity but high toxicity [lethal per 1 g of prey source for 10 min (Clark 2004; Saviola dose which kills 50% of test animals (LD50) \1.0 lg/g] et al. 2012a) and were always used within 1 h of prepa- toward rodents (Mus musculus), whereas adults of many ration. Snakes were fasted for 7–10 days before trials. rattlesnake species produce type I venoms containing During trials, extracts were presented to the snakes by higher SVMP activity with lower toxicities [LD50[1.0 lg/ soaking a cotton swab in the extract and placing the swab g (Mackessy 2008, 2010)]. To date, the studies that have approximately 2.5 cm in front of the snake’s nose (Cooper examined rattlesnake preferences towards E and NE prey and Burghardt 1990), and the rate of tongue flicking was cues have utilized only species with type I venoms (Duvall counted for 60 s. If the snake struck the cotton swab, the et al. 1978; Chiszar et al. 1992, 1999, 2008; Saviola et al. trial was terminated, and data were analyzed using the 2013). However, proteomic analyses of snake venoms tongue-flick attack score (TFAS) as reviewed in Cooper [termed ‘‘venomics’’ (Calvete et al. 2007)] continues to and Burghardt (1990). Tongue flicking for the 60-s trials identify significant venom variation with regards to general was recorded; however, if a snake struck the cotton swab, venom composition and overall abundance of specific this indicated maximal response, and TFAS was calculated protein families between and within species.
Load more

Recommended publications
  • Crotalus Oreganus Concolor: Envenomation Case with Venom Analysis and a Diagnostic Conundrum of Myoneurologic Symptoms
    WILDERNESS & ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE XXXX; XXX(XXX): 1e6 CASE REPORT Crotalus oreganus concolor: Envenomation Case with Venom Analysis and a Diagnostic Conundrum of Myoneurologic Symptoms Daniel E. Keyler, PharmD 1; Vinay Saini, MD 2;MarkO’Shea, Prof. 3;JeffGee,EMT4; Cara F. Smith, MS 5; Stephen P. Mackessy, PhD 5 1Department of Experimental & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN; 2Mimbres Memorial Hospital, Deming, New Mexico; 3Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK; 4Portal Rescue, Portal, AZ; 5School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO A case of midget-faded rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus concolor) envenomation of an adult male profes- sional herpetologist occurred in a rural setting and resulted in an array of venom induced myoneurologic symptoms. The patient experienced blurry vision, total body paresthesia, dyspnea, chest tightness, and waves of spastic muscle movements of the hands and feet that resembled tetany. It was not apparent whether these symptoms were potentially venom induced or were related to stress-induced physiologic responses. Local envenomation effects were minimal, and coagulation parameters remained within normal limits. Anti- venom was not administered per patient concerns related to a history of acute allergic reactions to antivenom. Venom was collected from the Crotalus oreganus concolor responsible for the bite, and analysis revealed the presence of high levels of myotoxins (SR calcium pump antagonists) and
    [Show full text]
  • Crotalus Oreganus Concolor: Envenomation Case with Venom Analysis, and a Diagnostic Conundrum of Myo-Neurological Symptoms
    1 Crotalus oreganus concolor: Envenomation Case with Venom Analysis, and a Diagnostic Conundrum of Myo-neurological Symptoms Short Title: Crotalus oreganus concolor Envenomation Daniel E. Keyler, PharmD; Vinay Saini, MD; Mark O’Shea, DSc; Jeff Gee, EMT; Cara F Smith, MS; Stephen P Mackessy, PhD From the Department of Experimental & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN (Dr Keyler); Mimbres Memorial Hospital, Deming, New Mexico (Dr Saini); Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, UK (Professor O’Shea); Portal Rescue, Portal, AZ (Mr. Gee); School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO (Ms Smith and Dr Mackessy). Corresponding Author: Daniel E. Keyler Professor Department of Experimental & Clinical Pharmacology 7-115 Weaver-Densford Hall 308 Harvard St. S.E. University of Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455 USA Phone (612) 840-0425 Email: [email protected] Word Count Abstract - 161 Manuscript + References = 2312 + 723; Total 3035 Reference Count - 33 Figure Count – 3 Table Count - 2 Meeting Presentation Platform presentation by Daniel E Keyler at the Venom Week VI Meeting, March 14, 2018; Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas, USA 2 Abstract A case of Midget-faded Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus concolor) envenoming to an adult male professional herpetologist occurred in a rural setting and resulted in what appeared as an array of venom induced myo-neurological symptoms. The patient experienced blurry vision, total body paresthesia, dyspnea, chest tightness, and waves of spastic muscle movements of the hands and feet that appeared like tetany. These symptoms were confounding as to whether they were potentially venom induced or were related to stress-induced physiological responses.
    [Show full text]
  • PREDATION of the ENDANGERED BLUNT-NOSED LEOPARD LIZARD (GAMBELIA SILA) in the SAN JOAQUIN DESERT of CALIFORNIA Author: David J
    PREDATION OF THE ENDANGERED BLUNT-NOSED LEOPARD LIZARD (GAMBELIA SILA) IN THE SAN JOAQUIN DESERT OF CALIFORNIA Author: David J. Germano Source: The Southwestern Naturalist, 63(4) : 276-280 Published By: Southwestern Association of Naturalists URL: https://doi.org/10.1894/0038-4909-63-4-276 BioOne Complete (complete.BioOne.org) is a full-text database of 200 subscribed and open-access titles in the biological, ecological, and environmental sciences published by nonprofit societies, associations, museums, institutions, and presses. Your use of this PDF, the BioOne Complete website, and all posted and associated content indicates your acceptance of BioOne’s Terms of Use, available at www.bioone.org/terms-of-use. Usage of BioOne Complete content is strictly limited to personal, educational, and non-commercial use. Commercial inquiries or rights and permissions requests should be directed to the individual publisher as copyright holder. BioOne sees sustainable scholarly publishing as an inherently collaborative enterprise connecting authors, nonprofit publishers, academic institutions, research libraries, and research funders in the common goal of maximizing access to critical research. Downloaded From: https://bioone.org/journals/The-Southwestern-Naturalist on 22 Oct 2019 Terms of Use: https://bioone.org/terms-of-use Access provided by Southwestern Association of Naturalists THE SOUTHWESTERN NATURALIST 63(4): 276–280 PREDATION OF THE ENDANGERED BLUNT-NOSED LEOPARD LIZARD (GAMBELIA SILA) IN THE SAN JOAQUIN DESERT OF CALIFORNIA DAVID J. GERMANO Department of Biology, California State University, Bakersfield, CA 93311-1099 Correspondent: [email protected] ABSTRACT—Predation can significantly affect prey populations, which could be significant for recovering species threatened with extinction.
    [Show full text]
  • (Crotalus Oreganus Helleri) Hunting Behavior Through Community Science
    diversity Article Quantifying Southern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus helleri) Hunting Behavior through Community Science Emily R. Urquidi * and Breanna J. Putman Department of Biology, California State University San Bernardino, 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA; [email protected] * Correspondence: [email protected] Abstract: It is increasingly important to study animal behaviors as these are the first responses organisms mount against environmental changes. Rattlesnakes, in particular, are threatened by habitat loss and human activity, and require costly tracking by researchers to quantify the behaviors of wild individuals. Here, we show how photo-vouchered observations submitted by community members can be used to study cryptic predators like rattlesnakes. We utilized two platforms, iNaturalist and HerpMapper, to study the hunting behaviors of wild Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes. From 220 observation photos, we quantified the direction of the hunting coil (i.e., “handedness”), microhabitat use, timing of observations, and age of the snake. With these data, we looked at whether snakes exhibited an ontogenetic shift in behaviors. We found no age differences in coil direction. However, there was a difference in the microhabitats used by juveniles and adults while hunting. We also found that juveniles were most commonly observed during the spring, while adults were more consistently observed throughout the year. Overall, our study shows the potential of using Citation: Urquidi, E.R.; Putman, B.J. community science to study the behaviors of cryptic predators. Quantifying Southern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus helleri) Keywords: citizen science; conservation; ontogeny; behavioral lateralization; snakes Hunting Behavior through Community Science. Diversity 2021, 13, 349. https://doi.org/10.3390/ d13080349 1.
    [Show full text]
  • Venomous Reptiles of Nevada
    Venomous Reptiles of Nevada Figure 1 The buzz from a rattlesnake can signal a heart stopping adventure to even the most experienced outdoor enthusiast. Figure 2 Authors M. L. Robinson, Area Specialist, Water/Environmental Horticulture, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension Polly M. Conrad, Wildlife Diversity Biologist—Reptiles, Nevada Department of Wildlife Maria M. Ryan, Area Specialist, Natural Resources, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension Updated from G. Mitchell, M.L. Robinson, D.B. Hardenbrook and E.L. Sellars. 1998. What’s the Buzz About Nevada’s Venomous Reptiles? University of Nevada Cooperative Extension—Nevada Department of Wildlife Partnership Publication. FS-98-35. SP 07-07 (Replaces FS-98-35) NEVADA’S REPTILES Approximately 52 species of snakes and lizards share the Nevada landscape with us. Of these, only 12 are considered venomous. Only 6 can be dangerous to people and pets. Encountering them is uncommon because of their body camouflage and secretive nature, which are their first defenses in evading predators. Consider yourself fortunate if you do see one! As with all wildlife, treat venomous reptiles with respect. Reptiles are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature increases or decreases in response to the surrounding environment. They are most active in the spring, summer and early fall when it’s comfortable, short sleeve weather for us. Reptiles usually hibernate, or brumate, in winter in response to colder temperatures. During high summer temperatures in the Mojave Desert, reptiles may spend time underground in order to maintain vital body temperatures. In most cases*, collecting Nevada’s native reptiles is not allowed without the appropriate permit, which is issued by the Nevada Department of Wildlife.
    [Show full text]
  • Effects of Disturbance on the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus Oreganus Oreganus) in British Columbia
    EFFECTS OF DISTURBANCE ON THE NORTHERN PACIFIC RATTLESNAKE (CROTALUS OREGANUS OREGANUS) IN BRITISH COLUMBIA by EMILY V. LOMAS BSc., University of British Columbia, 2009 A THESIS SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF Master of Science in Environmental Science Thompson Rivers University Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada April 2013 Thesis examining committee: Karl Larsen (PhD), Professor and Thesis Supervisor, Natural Resource Sciences, Thompson Rivers University Lauchlan Fraser (PhD), Professor, Natural Resource Sciences, Thompson Rivers University Robert Hood (PhD), Associate Professor, Tourism Management Department, Thompson Rivers University Christine Bishop (PhD), Research Scientist, Environment Canada Leigh Anne Isaac (PhD) (External Examiner), Wildlife Biologist, VAST Resource Solutions Inc. ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to sincerely thank my supervisor, Dr. Karl Larsen, for presenting me with the opportunity to work with, arguably, one of Canada’s most unique and extraordinary animals. His patience, supportive work environment, and first-rate stories have been greatly appreciated. Special thanks to Dr. Christine Bishop, without whom this project would not have been possible. Dr. Bishop’s dedication to the snake research program and support of my research has been invaluable. My experience working with snakes has been fascinating, challenging, and one I will never forget. Thanks also to my committee members Dr. Lauchlan Fraser and Dr. Robert Hood for their time, insight, and feedback. My time at Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre has been one full of new friends and fond memories. A huge thank you to Charlotte Stringam, who was very supportive and always made me feel more than welcome. Margaret Holm was instrumental in securing funds for the project and helping me with the small details with always speedy responses.
    [Show full text]
  • Crotalus Oreganus)
    Central Washington University ScholarWorks@CWU All Master's Theses Master's Theses Spring 2018 Coloration, Camouflage, and Sexual Dichromatism in the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus) Jefferson Brooks Central Washington University, [email protected] Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/etd Part of the Biology Commons, and the Laboratory and Basic Science Research Commons Recommended Citation Brooks, Jefferson, "Coloration, Camouflage, and Sexual Dichromatism in the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus)" (2018). All Master's Theses. 957. https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/etd/957 This Thesis is brought to you for free and open access by the Master's Theses at ScholarWorks@CWU. It has been accepted for inclusion in All Master's Theses by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks@CWU. For more information, please contact [email protected]. COLORATION, CAMOUFLAGE, AND SEXUAL DICHROMATISM IN THE NORTHERN PACIFIC RATTLESNAKE (Crotalus oreganus) __________________________________ A Thesis Presented to The Graduate Faculty Central Washington University ___________________________________ In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Science Biology ___________________________________ by Jefferson Davis Brooks June 2018 CENTRAL WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY Graduate Studies We hereby approve the thesis of Jefferson Davis Brooks Candidate for the degree of Master of Science APPROVED FOR THE GRADUATE FACULTY ______________ _________________________________________ Dr. Daniel Beck,
    [Show full text]
  • C O Concolor Keyler Et Al. DEK 11-12-18 Submit
    Crotalus oreganus concolor (Viperidae; Crotalinae): a Case of Envenomation with Venom Analysis from the Envenomating Snake: a Diagnostic Conundrum of Myo-neurological Symptoms Daniel E Keyler1, Vinay Saini2, Mark O’Shea3, Jeff Gee4, Cara F Smith5, Stephen P Mackessy5 1Dept. Experimental & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA; 2 Mimbres Memorial Hospital, Deming, New Mexico 88030 USA; 3 Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, UK; 4Portal Rescue, Portal, AZ 85632 USA; 5School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO 80639- 0017 USA Corresponding Author Daniel E. Keyler Professor Department of Experimental & Clinical Pharmacology 7-115 Weaver-Densford Hall 308 Harvard St. S.E, University of Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA 55455 Email: [email protected] Highlights • Midget-faded rattlesnake envenomation is an uncommon occurrence. • Myo-neurological symptoms may result from Midget-faded rattlesnake envenomation. • Stress-induced physiological responses may result following a rattlesnake bite. • Venom-induced and stress-induced effects may cause a diagnositic conundrum. • Concolor presynaptic neurotoxin can cause myotoxic effects. Abstract Crotalus oreganus concolor is a small species of North American rattlesnake, indigenous to a confined middle region of the western United States. Reports of envenomation to humans are quite rare, and studies regarding the toxicity and pharmacological actions of C. o. concolor venom have shown the presence of a presynaptic PLA2-based neurotoxin, low molecular weight myotoxins with myotoxic effects, and very low metalloproteinase (SVMP) activity. A case of envenomation that resulted in what appeared as potentially venom-induced myo-neurological symptoms is described. The patient sustained a single fang puncture from the bite of a captive C.
    [Show full text]
  • Crotalus Oreganus)
    THE BEHAVIORAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF LONG-DISTANCE TRANSLOCATION ON WESTERN RATTLESNAKES (CROTALUS OREGANUS) A Thesis presented to the Faculty of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Science in Biological Sciences by Kory Hayden Heiken December 2013 © 2013 Kory Hayden Heiken ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ii COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP TITLE: The behavioral and physiological effects of long- distance translocation on Western Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus) AUTHOR: Kory Hayden Heiken DATE SUBMITTED: December 2013 COMMITTEE CHAIR: Emily N. Taylor, PhD Associate Professor of Biological Sciences COMMITTEE MEMBER: Sean C. Lema, PhD Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences COMMITTEE MEMBER: John D. Perrine, PhD Associate Professor of Biological Sciences iii ABSTRACT The behavioral and physiological effects of long-distance translocation on Western Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus) Kory Hayden Heiken Long-distance translocation (LDT), the relocation of an animal outside of its home range, is a popular strategy for mitigating conflict between humans and venomous snakes. While LDT has been demonstrated to prevent a snake’s return to the location of capture, it may result in increased mortality, magnitude and frequency of movements, and activity range sizes. Thus, it has generally been discouraged. However, the effects of LDT on stress physiology and thermoregulation have gone largely unstudied in reptiles. To elucidate these effects, we conducted an experimental LDT on Western Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus) on Vandenberg Air Force base in California. Fourteen snakes were monitored, beginning in mid July 2012 and ending in early September. Each was implanted with a radio transmitter and iButton temperature data logger within the coelomic cavity.
    [Show full text]
  • Western Rattlesnake 5 Web Version.Indd
    Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Wildlife Notebook Series No. 22 Western Ratt lesnake (Crotalus oreganus) Few sounds evoke panic as quickly as the buzz of a rattle- America with the southern end of their range dipping into snake. As far as humans go, the sight and sound of a rattle- South America. More than 20 species and numerous sub- snake ranks pretty high on the avoidance scale. We seem to species of rattlesnakes have been recognized in the United be frightened and mesmerized at the same time. The parade States. of TV programs about poisonous snakes and snake handlers attests to that. The most common rattlesnake in Utah is the western rattle- snake (Crotalus oreganus), with two of its fi ve subspecies Mankind’s love-hate relationship and fascination with being found in Utah: the Great Basin Rattlesnake (C. o. snakes dates back to our earliest recorded history. We see lutosus) and the midget faded rattlesnake (C. o. concolor). evidence in Egyptian hieroglyphics, Mayan sculptures, and Herpetologists formerly classifi ed the western rattlesnake as ancient Indian rock art. Snakes have long been associated Crotalus viridis, but this classifi cation is now reserved for with the supernatural as well as shaman and medicine men. the prairie rattlesnake. Most people have little affection for snakes, especially Utah is home to additional rattlesnake species and subspe- poisonous ones. It’s diffi cult to cultivate positive feel- cies. These include the Mojave (Crotalus scutulatus) and ings toward a scaly, legless creature, capable of unleashing speckled (Crotalus mitchellii) rattlesnakes and the sidewind- excruciating pain or death.
    [Show full text]
  • Life History Account for Western Rattlesnake
    California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System California Department of Fish and Wildlife California Interagency Wildlife Task Group WESTERN RATTLESNAKE Crotalus oreganus Family: VIPERIDAE Order: SQUAMATA Class: REPTILIA R076 Written by: S. Morey Reviewed by: T. Papenfuss Edited by: R. Duke Updated by: CWHR Staff, November 2014 DISTRIBUTION, ABUNDANCE, AND SEASONALITY This common snake ranges widely in California including Santa Catalina Island. It is absent only from true desert regions. Found in virtually all habitats, except desert. Elevation sea level to 3350 m (11,000 ft). SPECIFIC HABITAT REQUIREMENTS Feeding: Western rattlesnakes forage in or near brushy areas, rock outcrops, mammal burrows, around and under surface objects, and in the open. Adult rattlesnakes take primarily rodents, especially ground squirrels. A variety of rodents, rabbits, birds, and even carrion are also taken (Cunningham 1959, Stebbins 1972 Diller 1981, Lillywhite 1982). Juvenile snakes take mostiy lizards, especially western fence lizards and side-blotched lizards. Young rodents are also taken. Prey is subdued largely by poisonous venom produced in modified salivary glands, and delivered by long, hollow fangs. Cover: When inactive, western rattlesnakes seek cover in crevices in rock outcrops, under surface objects, beneath dense vegetation, and in mammal burrows. At high elevations rattlesnakes hibernate for up to several months, usually in crevices in rocky accumulations. Reproduction: Young are born alive without a nest often in a secluded site. Water: No information on water requirements. The western rattlesnake occurs in moister habitats than other rattlesnakes found in California. Pattern: Found in all but desert habitat types. SPECIES LIFE HISTORY Activity Patterns: Mostly nocturnal and crepuscular, rattlesnakes may be active whenever temperatures are favorable.
    [Show full text]
  • Western Rattlesnake (Crotalus Oreganus) Is the Most Venomous Snake Found in British Columbia
    COSEWIC Assessment and Status Report on the Western Rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus in Canada THREATENED 2004 COSEWIC COSEPAC COMMITTEE ON THE STATUS OF COMITÉ SUR LA SITUATION ENDANGERED WILDLIFE DES ESPÈCES EN PÉRIL IN CANADA AU CANADA COSEWIC status reports are working documents used in assigning the status of wildlife species suspected of being at risk. This report may be cited as follows: Please note: Persons wishing to cite data in the report should refer to the report (and cite the author(s)); persons wishing to cite the COSEWIC status will refer to the assessment (and cite COSEWIC). A production note will be provided if additional information on the status report history is required. COSEWIC 2004. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the western rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. vi + 26 pp. (www.sararegistry.gc.ca/status/status_e.cfm). Didiuk, A.B., J.M. Macartney and L.A. Gregory. 2004. COSEWIC status report on the western rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus in Canada, in COSEWIC assessment and status report on the western rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. 1-26 pp. Production note: 1. The report was overseen and edited by Ron Brooks, COSEWIC Co-chair (Reptiles) Amphibians and Reptiles Species Specialist Subcommittee. 2. In Crother et al. (2000), which COSEWIC has used as the basis for all reptile nomenclature, this snake is called the Northern Pacific rattlesnake, Crotalus viridis oreganus. A second subspecies of C. viridis in Canada was C. viridis viridis, the prairie rattlesnake.
    [Show full text]