Their hollow fangs inject venom into their prey. Though lacking rattles, young snakes do have venom and can be dangerously defensive even from birth. Snakes may rest in the shade of an earthen overhang or bush, or sun themselves on top of a rock. Be alert as you hike and climb, looking first where you step and put your hands. Be careful after dark on warm nights as rattlesnakes are out hunting.
Many people spend a lifetime in outdoor activities and never see a rattlesnake.
Even fewer are bitten. The bite, however, is very painful and can make you quite ill. Death from a rattler is pretty much unheard of in healthy adults, but there is a greater chance in the very young or older victims. They are, however, a deadly danger to pets. Leash your dog.