Rattlesnake bites cause damage by destroying the tissue at the bite and causing blood clotting problems. The Mojave rattlesnake is different from the other California rattlers in that its venom affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis. Although rattlesnakes have several distinctive features, many people are not sure how to identify one. Using the snake's color or pattern is NOT a reliable method of identification. Looking for the characteristic rattle on the tail is a good method, but sometimes these rattles are lost.
Rattlesnakes have a powerful body, thin neck and a well defined triangular or arrow shaped head.
Do NOT get close enough to a rattlesnake to see what shape pupils it has unless it is safely captured. Getting that close is a good way to get bitten in the face. In comparison, non-poisonous snakes have round pupils in their eyes. They do not share the distinct skinny neck of the rattlesnake. This is true only of snakes native to California and does not apply to exotic snakes or snakes imported into California from elsewhere.