Western diamond-backed rattlesnake
Crotalus atrox
Crotalus atrox
VENOMOUS
Description:
The largest of the western rattlesnakes, this species is identified by the dark diamonds on its back that are outlined in white. They also have black and white bands that ring the end of the tail just before the rattle. This snake has keeled scales, a vertical pupil (not round *), and an obvious heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril.
* Note: Pit viper pupils can often appear round in certain lighting, such as in photos utilizing a flash. Do NOT use pupil shape as a sole means to identify any snake in Oklahoma.
Size:
Adults 32 - 82 inches (81 - 208 cm)
Prey:
Rodents, rabbits, and ground-dwelling birds
Reproduction:
Mates in spring and gives birth to live young in late summer to early fall. Typically has 4 - 25 babies that are 8 - 12 inches (20 - 31 cm) long.
Habitat:
Found in dry areas from mountains to prairies to rocky canyons.
Other Information:
Commonly called the "coon-tailed rattler" because of the markings on its tail, this snake can be quite defensive when disturbed. During the heat of the summer, they become active at night where they can occasionally be seen crossing roads.
Why doesn't the range map show this species in my county?
Description:
The largest of the western rattlesnakes, this species is identified by the dark diamonds on its back that are outlined in white. They also have black and white bands that ring the end of the tail just before the rattle. This snake has keeled scales, a vertical pupil (not round *), and an obvious heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril.
* Note: Pit viper pupils can often appear round in certain lighting, such as in photos utilizing a flash. Do NOT use pupil shape as a sole means to identify any snake in Oklahoma.
Size:
Adults 32 - 82 inches (81 - 208 cm)
Prey:
Rodents, rabbits, and ground-dwelling birds
Reproduction:
Mates in spring and gives birth to live young in late summer to early fall. Typically has 4 - 25 babies that are 8 - 12 inches (20 - 31 cm) long.
Habitat:
Found in dry areas from mountains to prairies to rocky canyons.
Other Information:
Commonly called the "coon-tailed rattler" because of the markings on its tail, this snake can be quite defensive when disturbed. During the heat of the summer, they become active at night where they can occasionally be seen crossing roads.
Why doesn't the range map show this species in my county?