I posted yesterday about having conversations with nature and then had a short but very important conversation with this rattlesnake on the trail at Reservoir Ridge Natural Area last evening. They initiated the conversation when they started to shake that rattle while I was about four feet away. Thus began our conversation. As soon as I heard them rattle I immediately stopped in my tracks. Without any words I knew exactly what they were saying to me, “That’s close enough! I’m coiled and ready.” I answered them by saying loudly something like, “Holy Crap!!”, then stepped back. I frantically looked for them. Once discovered, I moved off the trail and let them have it. After all, they were there first. I then asked if I could take a photo or two. I understood that rattle perfectly, without words.
8 Comments
Faye
Yikes! Yes, I would give that guy all the space ne needs/wants.
Monte Stevens
It actually took me a while to settle down. There was that inner feeling of how lucky I was to see them. Just after this I met a guy riding his bicycle and warned him about the snake. By the time I reached my car the bicyclist was already back. He told me he decided not to take any chances. This is the second time I’ve seen a rattlesnake in this location.
Tom Dills
Yes, that was surely a one-sided conversation, even though you were the one who uttered actual words! The message was one-way!
I’m enjoying this conversation about conversations. The exchange of thoughts and ideas that does not require words or (sometimes) even sound. Messages sent and received.
Monte Stevens
Yes, I was the listener. I was thinking on my way back how many people run and walk with earbuds in and would not have heard them. I was a couple of steps from being in striking distance by the time I heard and saw them.
Joe
It’s a sound you only need to hear once to understand its meaning.
Monte Stevens
They communicate very well! 😂
Mark
Well, the problem is you didn’t have a pair of maracas with you to communicate back. 😉 I have never seen one yet in the wild.
Monte Stevens
Now that is a good suggestions. I could shake them as I walked. Then, again, I would not hear theirs.