Rattlesnakes Deserve Respect, Not Hatred, in Texas

A writer reflects on the complex relationship between humans and the state's most iconic reptile.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In this thoughtful exploration, the author examines the complex relationship between humans and rattlesnakes in Texas. Tracing personal encounters and the cultural history of the diamondback rattlesnake, the piece challenges the common perception of these reptiles as mindless killers. Instead, it highlights their sophisticated social lives, protective instincts, and desire to avoid conflict with humans. The article also criticizes the cruel 'rattlesnake roundups' that still occur in parts of the state, calling for a more compassionate understanding of these iconic Texas creatures.

Why it matters

Rattlesnakes are a vital part of Texas' natural ecosystem, yet they are often met with fear and hatred, leading to unnecessary killing and cruel 'roundup' events. This story encourages readers to reconsider their views on these misunderstood reptiles and to appreciate the complex lives and behaviors of diamondback rattlesnakes.

The details

The author recounts several personal encounters with rattlesnakes, describing their calm, defensive behaviors and surprising social lives. The piece also delves into the cultural history of the diamondback rattlesnake in Texas, noting how it has been mythologized as a menace to be eliminated. However, the article highlights research showing that rattlesnakes actively avoid conflict with humans and are generally not aggressive unless provoked. The cruel practice of 'rattlesnake roundups,' where thousands of snakes are captured and killed for sport, is also criticized as an outdated and inhumane tradition.

  • In the summer of 1975, the author had a close encounter with a western diamondback rattlesnake while exploring abandoned buildings near Austin.
  • In October 2026, the author met with Clint Guadiana, a reptile expert, to observe rattlesnakes in the Rio Grande Valley at night.

The players

J. Frank Dobie

A renowned folklorist who wrote extensively about rattlesnakes in Texas and their role in the state's mythology.

Clint Guadiana

The curator of Reptiles & Amphibians at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville and the owner of a business that trains people to remove rattlesnakes.

Emily Taylor

A specialist in rattlesnake behavior from California Polytechnic State University and the mind behind Project Rattlecam, a livestream observing a community of prairie rattlesnakes in Colorado.

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What they’re saying

“To sit there and watch the way that they coiled up together and how truly peaceful it was—and how they weren't scared of me if I wasn't a threat—I just felt so privileged to be able to see so many of them doing that together.”

— Emily Taylor, Rattlesnake behavior specialist (texasobserver.org)

“They don't want conflict with something they see as a threat. They don't want to interact with us. They want to avoid us at all costs.”

— Clint Guadiana, Reptile expert (texasobserver.org)

What’s next

The author plans to continue exploring the complex relationship between humans and rattlesnakes in Texas, with a focus on advocating for more compassionate and informed attitudes towards these misunderstood reptiles.

The takeaway

Rattlesnakes are an integral part of Texas' natural heritage, yet they are often met with fear and hatred. This story encourages readers to reconsider their views on these animals, recognizing their sophisticated social lives, protective instincts, and desire to avoid conflict with humans. By fostering a more nuanced understanding of rattlesnakes, we can work towards coexisting with these iconic Texas creatures in a more harmonious and respectful way.