The eastern diamondback rattlesnake is just about as American as apple pie. Possibly more so. A symbol of the colonies, the rattlesnake became a rallying icon of the American Revolution. The famous Gadsden flag of the revolution features a rattlesnake poised to strike with the motto "Don't tread on me."
More lately, the rattlesnake has been the victim of housing developments and cruel and unnecessary rattlesnake round ups in which hunters compete to see who can kill the most snakes in a day. The assault on rattlesnakes has been so severe, its numbers have decreased by 97 percent since 1930, according to research published by the Center for Biological Diversity.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service is carefully considering a plan to put rattlers on the endangered species list, but they need to hear from you! Let the FWS know you support listing the diamondback!
We the undersigned note that the eastern diamondback rattlesnake has not won any popularity contests of late. Though it poses very little risk to humans, the rattlesnake is feared and mercilessly hunted in round ups. Its habitat is also thoughtlessly destroyed to make way for new houses and businesses. You have received compelling evidence that the rattlesnake's population has declined disastrously over the last eight years. Please put this species on the endangered species list where it belongs.
