Bike ride!

[Corvid]

So, I got a new bike yesterday! It's pink and has a bell
I went for a short (4.5 mile) ride just to test it out.
I was riding along and saw 2 good-sized mule bucks!!
When I turned around and was coming back I saw the original 2 PLUS 2 more, then a tiny little female.
I was so happy because I've been cooped up all summer so far.
I was watching the doe who was really close to the trail when all of the sudden I heard a noise.....
I thought to myself, no, it couldn't be, and slammed on my brakes.
When I looked behind me I saw it!!!!
It was about 3 foot long Rattling and standing up, about 6 inches was on the trail.
The Western Diamond Back!!!!
I was SO excited because I've been hoping and hoping to see one of these. Not only did I see one, he was performing for me!!!
OF COURSE I didn't have my camera (it was just a short trip and I wasn't looking for anything)
I moved towards him a little bit to get a closer look as he started to "run" away from me.
I will now be bringing my camera with me, and as happy as a clam for seeing my first wild rattler
Thanks for reading!

[redpython]

that is awesome 2 fold...you out riding your bike and seeing a snake.

but...are you sure it was a w.d.? where were you?

[Corvid]

NOW you've got me wondering!
I'm stuck at work today (12 fricken hours!! ) I would give anything to be back out on my bike, and even more to see another snake and to have my camera!!!
Growing up in Colorado all you hear about is W.D. BUT after a little bit of research, I don't think it was.
It was probably a Prairie. I would have remembered the black and white bands, because I got a better look at its tail than head.
Thanks for questioning, it made me research!

[DutchHerp]

Yeah, viridis seems a little more likely.

Congrats anyway, now you can easily access better herping grounds!

Later, Matt

[Corvid]

This is why I love this site. Encouragement and education.
Before I started frequenting this site I would have run in the opposite direction of the rattler.
After ready so many great field herping stories (a lot of which are yours Matt) and seeing some of the most incredible pictures I've gained a fascination and understanding. Of which I look forward to expand on!!
Thanks everyone who contributes to BP.net!

[CoolioTiffany]

I saw my first WDB when I went hiking. Didn't do much, just go into a bush lol. Though, I was so excited to see it! My first and only wild snake I've ever seen xD

[ev477]

Bike rides are the best, great exercise and fresh air. I didn't even think about looking for wildlife when I first started riding. After I saw a turtle walking across the bike path, I started keeping my eyes peeled and noticing snappers basking in the river and seeing rabbits.

Pictures do show a lot more than words though, maybe when you have your camera you'll run into more critters.

[Sloanreptiles]

Yeah its either the Massasauga or Prairie Rattler. Havn't been lucky enough to come across either, although we go out for hours at a time lol.
Congrats