From fear to admiration: traditional and local knowledge about rattlesnakes (genus Crotalus) in Zacatecas, Mexico

Abstract

Numerous misconceptions and myths about rattlesnakes persist in Mexico, and both the negative perceptions of these snakes as threats to human safety and their traditional uses have contributed to their persecution. We therefore investigated how local residents perceive and utilise rattlesnakes while also working to dispel widespread misinformation about rattlesnake biology, behaviour, and ecology. For this purpose, 240 semi-structured surveys were conducted in 48 localities in Zacatecas State. Most of the interviewees had experienced at least one encounter with a rattlesnake, mainly in summer afternoons, on highways, asphalt roads, and dirt roads. Medicinal use emerged as the main reason why rattlesnakes are hunted because respondents believe that they are useful in the treatment of various ailments, including cancer, allergies, heart disease, rheumatism, muscle fatigue, and joint pain. We present the most common myths related to rattlesnakes in Zacatecas and highlight people’s interest to learn more about these organisms and their conservation.