Hikers Capture Rare Video of Rattlesnakes Fighting in Massachusetts and It's Wild

Rattlesnakes are most commonly associated with the rolling deserts and arid scrublands of the American Southwest, but they have a much broader habitat range than many people realize. Though these cold-blooded reptiles prefer warm climes in general, several different species of rattlesnakes can be found all across the continental United States - yes, even in New England!

The average hiker probably doesn't think to watch out for rattlesnakes when hitting the trails in Massachusetts. That's why this group of hikers was shocked when they spotted a rare pair of rattlesnakes fighting on a trail at Blue Hills Reservation, a state park just south of Boston!

Thought seeing a solitary rattlesnake was a rare sight in Massachusetts? Try two of them at the same time! Boston's WBZ News (@wbztv) shared this mesmerizing video of the unlikely encounter from a group of local hikers who, understandably, were made a little nervous by the creepy-crawly sight!

Related: Highly-Venomous Snake Caught Lurking in Closet of Australia Family’s Home

Some online commenters suspected that the dueling pair were not actually fighting, but... well, "engaged in adult activities," as one commenter put it. Based on how they're interacting, however, it looks more like a battle between two male snakes vying for a lady snake's affection (and if you don't believe me, compare their wrestling match to this Nat Geo video depicting a rattlesnake courtship duel). Either way, looks like chances are high that there'll be a few extra baby rattlesnakes on this trail soon!

Rare Rattlesnakes in Massachusetts

The prospect of new baby rattlers might not seem ideal to some, but for wildlife conservationists in Massachusetts, it's welcome news. These are timber rattlesnakes, a species of rattlesnake native to the East Coast. While timber rattlesnakes are considered endangered in Massachusetts these days, that wasn't always the case. Endangered wildlife expert Jesse Leddick told WBZ News that timber rattlesnakes have lived in the area for thousands of years, but their numbers have severely dwindled due to habitat loss, disease, roadway accidents, and even intentional killings.

"Back in the late 1800s there were actually rattlesnake bounties," Leddick said. Wildlife experts reportedly believe that there are only five or six native rattlesnake populations left in the entire state, making the shocking rattlesnake duel in Blue Hills Reservation all the rarer and all the more remarkable.

Like many other species of venomous snakes, timber rattlesnakes are often misunderstood and wrongfully targeted. Though their bite is medically significant and requires immediate treatment, timber rattlers very rarely bite humans, especially not without cause. According to MassWildlife, most timber rattler bites are due to illegal or ill-advised handling and harassment, not unprovoked attacks!

Because timber rattlesnakes are both venomous and an endangered species, MassWildlife warns people to keep a safe distance and not to handle or otherwise disturb them. MassWildlife also asks that people report timber rattler sightings through their Heritage Hub or by filling out a Rare Animal Observation Form to aid in their conservation efforts!

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.