If you are a member of any local buy/sell groups, you’ve likely seen this post out there. If you do, do not share it – it’s part of a scam to create viral posts in these easy to get into and usually poorly moderated groups.
Is this rattlesnake fake?
Not at all. It’s a real snake; an Ornate Blacktailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus ornatus) from the mountains of Texas where they are found. This one was photographed several years ago within its natural home range by a rattlesnake educator named Tim Cole.
Quick correction of BS associated with this scam trend:
- Rattlesnakes are not increasing their range – in fact most species are losing ground quickly.
- This rattlesnake is not an albino – it is a normal coloration and appearance for the species.
- “Scientists don’t know everything” and similar comments: because it is a mystery to some does not mean this snake is a mystery to those who study them. If you just learned about the existence of this species from this scam post, consider that herpetologists are more knowledgeable than you are on the topic.
If you see this post:
- Report it to Facebook as false information
- Post this article into the comments so that others can be informed and stop spreading it.