The Rattlesnakes of Winter

 

"Frank" sitting outside the hibernaculum on February 3rd, 2019. (Photo by John B. Hewlett)

It is unusual for Timber rattlesnakes to emerge during the winter months, but is occasionally known to happen in apparently healthy individuals. One potential reason for winter emergence is an underlying pathophysiological condition such as infection with Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola. Winter basking may allow for a more effective immune response by elevating leukocyte function and/or allowing for the skin to dry when a fungal infection is present [1,2]. However, this behavior is costly because of energy losses and an increased risk of predation [2].

While out checking hibernacula this past weekend (2/3/2019) one of my study animals was out and looked anorexic. qPCR results on tissue biopsies collected from this snakel back in September will be forthcoming.

 

Snake out during the early part of February. The animal was anorexic, though alert. (Photo by John B. Hewlett).

It is very important that we understand the behavioral and physiological dynamics of these animals to potentially mitigate emerging diseases. Please consider supporting my research to help me learn more about the potential influence of SFD and stress on these snakes!

Literature Cited:

1. Kluger, M.J. 1979. Fever in ecotherms: Evolutionary Implications. American Zoologist, 19:295-304. 2. Nordberg, E.J. and V.A. Cobb. 2016. Midwinter emergence in hibernating timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus). Journal of Herpetology, 50(2):203-208.