Sound on!!! Recently at the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge in California, a California ground squirrel was observed tossing wood chips, jumping around and flicking its tail at a southern Pacific rattlesnake, likely in response to the snake having just eaten another squirrel. The dramatic encounter lasted at least eight minutes. But why bother if the snake already ate? Because ground squirrels don’t just protect themselves, they defend their burrows, warn nearby squirrels and sometimes even protect their young or close relatives. These clever critters have evolved unique anti-snake tactics. They kick sand, heat up their tails to confuse the snake’s heat sensors and throw debris to drive predators away. The rattlesnake rattled and struck in response, but didn’t chase, likely too full to fight. Video of a California ground squirrel interacting with a southern Pacific rattlesnake who had recently eaten. The snake rattles its rattle to warn the squirrel. Credit: Sally Brown/USF...