WCP2448

[1]¹

Dec. 1^st, 1891.

Mr Alfred Russell Wallace,

C/O Mac'Millan & Co., London,

England.

Dear Sir:

I have always been an interested reader of your various works; and, in "DARWINISM", page #262, I notice the theory as to the use of the rattle on the rattlesnake.

I can state from personal observation, and from conversation with others, who have given me the benefit of their experiences, that there are facts that you do not state which seem strongly to confirm the theory that is is used as a warning to its enemies. with the exception of the deer and the hog, — who frequently attack and kill the rattlesnake, — all quadrupeds and birds seem to have an instinctive dread of the rattlesnake, and cannot be induced to approach it, especially if it be in coil.

Its coloring can hardly be said to be protective as applied to the "diamond" rattlesnake in the Southern States, — especially in Florida, where I have seen it, and killed it. It is rather brilliant than otherwise, though it frequents the thickest underbrush and weeds ^{OFTEN NEAR WATER}. Having once seen it, you can never forget it, and it is more readily discernable than any other snake. It seems certain that it (CON'T) [2] A.R.W.(2.) also possess a very strong odor ^{(LIKEWISE WARNING)} since it is not an uncommon thing for pointers and setter dogs to stand it exactly as they do a bevy of quails. I have known some dogs being struck by the snake in such cases, and dying from the effects. If it can be proved (as I believe is the case) that the rattling is voluntary, and that it does not use its poisonous fangs ^{NOR RATTLE (ORDINARILY)} in seizing its food, it would seem an absolute confirmation of this theory. I have frequently heard of instances (though I cannot vouch for the accuracy of them) where it struck without rattling. It is a common belief (though I cannot vouch for this either) that in the mid-summer when it sheds its skin, it is especially dangerous because it is almost blind from excessive poison ^{(OR FROM THE CUTICLE NOT BEING SHED FROM ITS EYES)} and that it strikes, without any warning, at objects passing it. I am, however, in correspondence with some who know the snake in its wild state, and also in captivity; and, if their experience will throw any light on this point, I shall be glad to send it to you.

Your information as to the sluggishness of the snake in the fact that it can be beaten on the head with a stick, may be true of the prairie rattlesnake, but it is not true of the diamond rattler; the latter is very fierce and easy irritated, and never hesitates to attack when approached. In its movement, it is not nearly so active as the black snake, who frequently kills it; but when striking from coil, its rapidity is almost proverbial in the Southern States.

Trusting that I have not intruded too much on your valuable time, I am

Truly yours | A.W. Douglas [signature]