Thousands Attend Opp’s Rattlesnake Rodeo

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Opp’s Rattlesnake Rodeo drew thousands of people to the area during the weekend.

The 2-day event featured 80 Eastern Diamondback Rattlensakes. There were also several vendors, entertainment and a rattlesnake race. This was the 56th year of the rodeo. People attending the event say curiousity drives them to the rodeo, hoping to get close to the snakes. Snake handlers say the rattlesnakes for the rodeo are never hurt or harmed.

“When we get through with them, they are sold to a gentleman that will collect them and collect the venom in sterile conditions and so forth which is used for research and medicine,” says Kenn Howell.

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in the country.