Charles Owen

The Caudifonant, or rattle-snake, is a large Species of the viper, and in its exterior Form every way similar, the rustling tail excepted; it moves with a s much Agility as if supply'd with Wings, called therefore the flying-Snake: It has small eyes, and four Teeth longer than the rest, of white Colour, and sharp, like Thorns; the Head is guarded with small Scales, the Back with larger and thicker Armour; the Tail is composed of several loose bony Articulaments that make a roaring sound, loud enough to be heard at a distance; and therefore called the Bell-Snake.

It is common in Virginia, where it appears to be from three to four foot long, and reckoned to be very poisonous; but scarcely hurts any, unless provoked; and when offended, like the God of War, makes directly at the Enemy, without dread of Consequences. - Owen 1742

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