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Genus: Crotalus Scales: Dorsal Scales Keeled Anal Plate: Single Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnakes are found from central Arkansas to southern tip of California. They live in a large variety of habitat; anywhere from coastal grasslands to the Sonoran desert. They generally grow to three to four feet in length, but giant six foot specimens are sometimes not uncommon. Diamondbacks predominately feed on rodents and lagomorphs (rabbits) but birds and reptiles are also on the menu. Breeding season starts around March, and the young are born around September. Like other members of North American pit-vipers, Western Diamondbacks give birth to their young. Litters typically number around a dozen. Diamondbacks are usually highly aggressive and will rattle at the first sight of an intruder (esp. if the snake is at optimal body temperature). They are also known as "coon-tailed ratters" because of the back and white banding on their tails. Please check out Laurence M. Klauber's landmark book titled; Rattlesnakes: Their Habits, Life Histories, & Influence on Mankind, for a better understanding of these majestic creatures. Proper snake handling tools must be use when handling this species. |
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