The average size of an adult western diamondback rattlesnake is between 4 and 6 feet. Heftier snakes can weigh nearly 15 pounds, but the average weight is three to six pounds.

The U.S. is home to some of the deadliest snakes in the world, from highly venomous rattlesnakes to stealthy cottonmouths.

Kenny Pham was sure he would not touch a snake. “No thanks,” the 5-year-old Carver boy said. “I’m afraid of snakes.” But his fear melted away minutes later seeing snakes slithering over owner Wendy ...