I've just searched to see if this is due to be screened on Animal Planet over here, and it isn't. So either it's just not been exported to Europe yet, or the European channel controllers have some standards. I tend not to watch Animal Planet, but they have the occassional programme that is worthwhile. I've obviously not seen the programme so have no basis for my views other than the responses of others who have seen it.

The blurb from the AP about this programme:

"In the heart of Texas is a little known world where men hunt and capture the continent's most dangerous predator. The Rattlesnake Republic follows the lives and adventures of four teams of brave rattlesnake wranglers as they battle to make a living."

It's not about the animals, it's about the bastards that hunt them down and convince the public that they are dangerous. I've never seen a rattler except from behind glass, and I wouldn't rush to put my hand in a tank with one. But to describe them as the "the continent's most dangerous predator" is just sensationalising cow manure.
I'm pretty sure there are many more deadly animals in the US that don't have a big rattle on their tail to warn you off before they bite you.

I may have a prejudiced view of American TV viewers, but I'd imagine that this programme went down a storm with a whole demographic of viewers.