Thousands of Rattlesnakes Emerge from Colorado Mega Den

A viral livestream known as Project RattleCam is captivating viewers as thousands of prairie rattlesnakes emerge from a secret 'mega den' in Colorado for the spring season. Scientists from California Polytechnic State University, Central Coast Snake Services, and Dickinson College use the livestream to study snake behavior, social dynamics, and educate the public about the ecological importance of rattlesnakes. The den, thought to house up to 2,000 snakes, is kept at an undisclosed location to protect the reptiles from disturbance or poaching. The livestream has drawn millions of viewers, allowing people to observe not only rattlesnakes but also other species like garter snakes. Project RattleCam encourages public engagement through activities like naming snakes and aims to reduce fear and misconceptions about these often-misunderstood animals. Researchers note that as spring progresses, hundreds of snakes—including pregnant females—will become more visible as they bask in the sun and prepare for the summer season.