This advanced method of venom injection is common characteristic of all members of the Pit Viper family which I discuss later in this article. Rattlesnakes only hunt for prey which they can swallow whole, such as small squirrels, rabbits, and other small rodents. Therefore, they will not intentionally hunt and strike a large animal, including humans, unless they feel threatened. The elements of most Rattlesnake bites are hemotoxic, which damages tissue and effects the circulatory system by destroying blood cells, skin tissues and causing internal hemorrhaging. Rattlesnake venom also contains neurotoxic components which immobilize the nervous system affecting the victim's breathing, sometimes stopping it.
Most Rattlesnakes have venom composed primarily of hemotoxic properties.
The Sea Snake, Coral Snake, and Cobra family of snakes also have venom with dominant neurotoxic characteristics. It is a good idea to learn to identify a venomous snake in the event you encounter or are bitten by one. The venom in Rattlesnake species varies, and there are different treatments for the spectrum of species and venomous snake families. Proper identification of a snake will help medical professionals and poison control centers know how to best treat the victim. Some professionals recommend that the snake be killed and brought into the hospital with the victim for identification.