Northern Pacific Rattlesnake

Crotalus oreganus oreganus

Venom Status:

Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Wide ranging, abundant, and with variable disposition. This strongly patterned, often feisty, rarely placid, rattler is adult at from 30 to 42” in length. The ground color varies from pale gray and grayish blue through various shades of brown to yellowish. Anterior dorsal blotches vary from brown to black. They may have lighter centers and may be narrowly bordered with light pigment. Posteriorly the blotches become crossbands. There are also lateral spots. Tail is strongly banded. Neonates are similar to the adults but may have yellow tails to assist in caudal luring. Note the vertical pupils and infrared sensing pit between, but lower than, the nostril and eye.

 

Unique Features:

 

Habitat and Diet:

 

Geographic Range:

CA, ID, OR, WA,