Introduction
The western rattlesnake is a venomous snake found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is a member of the viper family and can grow to be up to 6 feet long. The western rattlesnake is characterized by its diamond-shaped head, black and white banded tail, and brown or tan body with dark brown spots.
Physical Attributes
The western rattlesnake has a diamond-shaped head and a black and white banded tail. It is brown or tan in color with dark brown spots. The western rattlesnake can grow to be up to 6 feet long.
Habitat
The western rattlesnake lives in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It prefers dry, rocky areas where there are plenty of places to hide. The western rattlesnake is often found near human habitation, as there are plenty of places for it to hide and find food.
Feeding
The western rattlesnake feeds on small mammals such as mice, rats, and rabbits. It will also eat reptiles such as lizards and snakes. The western rattlesnake uses its venom to kill its prey before swallowing it whole.
Migration
The western rattlesnake does not migrate great distances. It will often move around its home range in search of food or mates. The western rattlesnake will also move to higher ground in the summer to escape the heat.
Social Habits
The western rattlesnake is a solitary creature. It only comes together with other snakes during mating season. After mating, the female will give birth to live young. The young snakes are on their own from the moment they are born.
Interesting Facts
- The western rattlesnake is one of the most dangerous snakes in North America. Its venom can cause serious injury or death if not treated immediately. – The western rattlesnake is capable of striking up to half its body length. – The western rattlesnake gets its name from the rattle at the end of its tail, which it shakes when it feels threatened. – The western rattlesnake is one of several species of snakes that can climb trees. – The western rattlesnake is protected by law in some states due to its declining population. – Although they are venomous, only about 1% of people who are bitten by awestern rattlesnake die from the venom. – Western Diamondback Rattlers usually mate during late spring but have been known to mate as early as February or as late as November
Conservation Status
Although they are protected by law in some states, the population of western diamondback rattlesnakes is declining due to habitat loss and persecution by humans
