PGF Leaf #22 - Diamondback rattlesnake Traditional Cache
PGF Leaf #22 - Diamondback rattlesnake
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Difficulty:
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Size: 
(regular)
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Each of the geocaches in the PGF Leaf series will highlight an animal that can be found in the Starkey Wilderness Preserve. While searching for the PGF Leaf caches, and while hiking in any wilderness area, please remember ... this is the animal's home - you are merely a guest. Be respectful of natural communities, and leave nothing behind but footprints.
Cachers are invited to upload pictures they take of each animal subject - as long as the picture was actually taken within the boundaries of the Starkey Wilderness Park.
Diamondback rattlesnake
The diamondback rattlesnake is one of the largest snakes in the United States, and is the largest of all rattlesnake species. Although eastern indigo snakes (also found in Starkey Wilderness Preserve) are frequently longer, the diamondback rattlesnake is usually heavier. They can reach lengths up to about 8 feet and weigh over 30 pounds. Four to six feet in length would be a more typical size
Rattlesnakes are venomous pit vipers, and should be treated with great respect. Adult humans bitten by diamonback rattlesnakes suffer a mortality rate of 10 to 20 percent. But if you find yourself faced with a long hike back to get help, your odds aren't that good. These snakes are, however, not usually aggressive - preferring to retreat from human presence. And, true to their name, they will normally give you a bit of warning that you are invading their territory by using their rattle. Bites are rare unless you actually step on one, or are foolhardy enough to try and approach one after being warned.
Diamondback rattlesnakes are will adapted to all habitats found in Starkey Park. They can be found in the pine flatwoods, as well as in the river basins. They typically shelter amongst the roots of palmettos or in the pine straw. But will occasionally cohabitate in gopher tortoise holes or cavities in dead trees. Their diet consists of small to medium sized animals like rabbits, squirrels, rats and birds.
This cache was placed by a member of the PGF Leaf team and is maintained by the WestPascoEventTeam
The PGF Leaf Project is a geocaching series placed with the cooperation and permission of Pasco County Parks & Recreation Department, Pasco Department of Tourism, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
Additional Hints
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