I've spent my entire life in rattler country, and while I don't try petting the things I also don't go out of my way to whack them either. One does wonder what the Creator had in mind when He came up with rattlers, sidewinders, copperheads, and coral snakes. We have perfectly functional and useful rosy boas, garter snakes, gopher snakes, and king snakes (my favorite), so the venomous extra-cost option seems like over-kill to me. But like in many other venues, I was not consulted on the matter--only advised. While in His wisdom He gave us the rattlesnake, He also gave us the 410 shotgun, which is my favorite counter-measure for those times a diamondback just gets a bit too close for polite company. I usually have one along during dove season, the time and place where I see most of the rattlers. I think Opening Day of dove season in CA accounts for most of both dove and rattlesnake kills made all year. City types do get anxious about them buzztailed serpents, and since Opening Day where I hunt is usually running in the 115* ballpark with about 75%-90% humidity a mile south of the Salton Sea, shade is at a premium. Rattlers like it too, so the 410 assists with evictions that go forcible in nature. I insist upon rattler departure forthwith--and can assist with making that departure permanent in nature. Roadrunners and coyotes gotta eat too.
Just a reminder--only 11 shopping days left until dove season.