Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Crotalus adamanteus

Venom Status:

Venomous

 

Characteristics:

It’s big (of course they do start out pretty small), its back is covered from neck to tail by a vivid diamond pattern, and unless it was accidentally lost, it has a rattle. There should be no problem at all identifying the iconic eastern diamond-backed rattlesnake. The eastern diamond-backs of today are adult at 4 to 5 feet in length but in days gone by 6 and 7 footers were found and the documented record size was an even 8 feet. This is the only rattlesnake with a diamond pattern on its back in the southeast. The tail is banded, but black where the rattle adjoins. This is often a defensive snake that should not be closely approached. Scales in 27 or 29 rows.

 

Unique Features:

Often assumes a striking pose with head and anterior coil elevated well above the rest of the body. Note the vertical pupils and infrared sensing pit between, but lower than, the nostril and eye. Aptly named for its white edged dorsal diamonds.

 

Habitat and Diet:

This our largest rattlesnake may be encountered in pine-palmetto flatwoods, but may stray from these to other nearby habitats. Occasionally found in dry deciduous woodlands, and edge situations. Often found on offshore keys/islands. Secretive and may survive well in suburbia. Primarily feeds on Small mammals, birds and lizards.

 

Geographic Range:

FL, GA, SC, AL, NC, LA, MS,