Animal Profiles
Reptiles

Rattlesnake

Crotalini

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Rattlesnakes are venomous pit vipers with a tail rattle. This account describes the western diamondback (Crotalus atrox), a heavy-bodied snake of the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Crotalus atrox (rattlesnake)

Representative species: Crotalus atrox.

Holger Krisp · CC BY

At a glance

Habitat
Desert, Grassland
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Small mammals and other vertebrates.

Classification

Common name
Rattlesnake
Browse group
Reptiles
Scientific name or taxon
Crotalini
Source classification
Reptilia

Three things to know

  • Heat-sensitive pits help locate prey.
  • The tail rattle is a defensive signal.
  • Small mammals are important food.

Habitat and range

Western diamondbacks inhabit dry rocky and shrub-covered country in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Crevices, burrows and vegetation provide concealment and temperature refuges.

Appearance and adaptations

Diamond-like back markings and contrasting tail bands distinguish typical adults. Heat-sensitive pits between the eyes and nostrils help detect warm-bodied prey.

Diet and behaviour

Small mammals form a major part of the diet, with birds and other animals also taken. Venom subdues prey. The rattle is used in defensive signalling, while concealment and retreat remain important parts of everyday survival.

Sources

Explore reptiles

Browse all reptiles