Grand Canyon Rattlesnake

Crotalus oreganus abyssus

Venom Status:

Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Adults of this subspecies measure 3 to 4 1/2’ in length. Ground color varies from tan and gray to terracotta. Dark dorsal blotches are more prominent on young snakes than on older ones. The tail is banded. Markings on some old adults are so faded that they are nearly invisible. Note the vertical pupils and infrared sensing pit between, but lower than, the nostril and eye. Scales keeled. Ovoviviparous.

 

Unique Features:

Color, pattern and locale will help identify this interesting rattlesnake.

 

Habitat and Diet:

This snake inhabits canyons, rock slides, grasslands and desert scrublands.Preys on small rodents, ground nesting birds, and lizards

 

Geographic Range:

AZ,