Several species of rattlesnakes could become extinct just as we are beginning to understand their ecological importance. The timber rattlesnake is listed as endangered or threatened in several states, but no federal or international laws currently protect this species. The western diamondback rattlesnake, the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, and the western or prairie rattlesnake are not protected anywhere in their ranges, nor are they protected by any federal or international laws. We must act now to save remaining rattlesnake populations and gather the knowledge necessary for developing long-term conservation strategies. Cruelty Most snakes used in rattlesnake roundups are driven out of their dens with gasoline, stored without water or food in unhygienic conditions, and crammed tightly into containers for transport to and display at roundup events.
Many snakes arrive at roundups starved, dehydrated, or crushed to death.
Those who survive may be used in cruel public demonstrations and daredevil acts. The rattlesnakes are eventually decapitated, a cruel and inefficient method of slaughter for reptiles. Environmental Damage Rattlesnake collection methods are highly destructive of the habitats of rattlesnakes and other burrow dwellers such as gopher tortoises, indigo snakes, box turtles, coachwhip snakes, pine snakes, southern toads, and gopher frogs, along with burrowing owls, raccoons, opossums, and at least thirty-two species of invertebrates. The most popular and most destructive collection method is to spray gasoline or other toxic chemicals into rattlesnake dens and resting places, which can render a burrow uninhabitable for years. Once introduced into the soil, gasoline could contaminate groundwater the primary water source for many rural communities thus poisoning wildlife, livestock, and humans.