Are there any snakes other than a rattlesnake that will "rattle" their tail as a defense?

Question

We saw a snake in our yard in Louisiana about 2 weeks ago. It shook it's tail, but did not have the markings of a rattlesnake or an actual rattle.

Answer 1

Definately. I have seen lots of snakes shake their tails like that. Copperheads, bullsnakes, water snakes, coachwhips. It is a warning signal. It works better for the rattlesnake because of the rattles though.

However, just because a snake did not have rattles, that does not mean it was not a rattlesnake. Also, there are all sorts of rattlesnakes and some are pretty plain in the marking department.

Answer 2

Yes! Many snakes have been observed doing the "rattle" motion with the tips of their tail. Even the common 'garter' snake does this. Some scientists think that it is a distraction, and therefore protective. If say a predator lunges for the tail, the snake can often escape. Some thinik it may be a 'copy' of the rattlesnake and therefore spook a potential predator.

Answer 3

Gopher snakes, kingsnakes and corn snakes will sometimes mimic the rattling behavior of rattlesnakes. I've seen them do it.

FWIW, unless you are very sure of your identification of a snake, I wouldn't attempt to touch or catch a snake. If you get the identification wrong, you aren't going to be a happy camper.

Answer 4

Yes, many non-venomous snakes will do this. It is pretty common.