The Rattlesnake Conservancy

The purpose of TRCs Research Programs is to provide on-the-ground action in pursuit of information which benefits rattlesnakes in particular Crotalids of Special Concern CSCs. Research programs are aimed towards identifying gaps of knowledge about pertinent subjects which affect the long-term presence and survival of wild rattlesnakes. Organic research programs are currently focused on wildlife disease eastern diamondback & timber rattlesnake microhabitat restoration methodology assistance with eastern diamondback rattlesnake population delineation efforts eastern massasauga distribution and habitat detection and species recovery efforts for the New Mexico ridge-nosed rattlesnake. TRCs Research Programs include annual conservation grants to outside projects which support our mission and focus on meaningful research on rattlesnakes. Programs previously funded have included invasive pentastome research in the eastern diamondback rattlesnakes in Florida human-snake conflict mitigation & spatial ecology of Neotropical rattlesnakes in Brazil effects of wildfire on various montane species in New Mexico and effects of the invasive pentastome lungworm on pygmy rattlesnakes in Florida.

TRCs Training Programs have been taught throughout the United States since 2015 and set the industry standard in safe venomous handling practices. These courses empower individuals professionals and first responders with the skills and equipment they need to respond safely to venomous snakes in their communities through a combination of classroom instruction in important topics like native venomous snake species ecology snake anatomy and physiology reproductive behavior venom toxinology emergency snakebite management captive husbandry and more; with hands on techniques like single hooking double hooking bagging and containing venomous snakes. All courses are led by certified instructors with decades of cumulative experience in safely handling venomous snakes and continue to provide an effective model for human-snake conflict mitigation in areas where snakes are likely to come into contact with people.

Our Education Programs are designed to inspire a lifelong commitment to conservation and cultivate a deep connection with the natural world. We believe that providing environmental education and instilling a love for nature in children plays a vital role in conservation and therefore directly supports our mission. To this end we offer many innovative education programs and experiences for all ages including reptile encounters community outreach events visiting classrooms on-site and off-site field trips day camps guided hikes nature excursions and a native venomous snake display which is open to the public. Additionally we produce activities and materials which support state and national science standards and are available completely free for download on our website. These educator resources help children learn how to identify their native snake species learn how to live safely alongside potentially dangerous wildlife and recognize some of the ecological benefits they provide.