Panamint Rattlesnake

Crotalus stephensi

Venom Status:

Venomous

 

Characteristics:

This tan, buff, brown, gray, pink, orange, or multi-color, rattler varies from bland to beautiful. It is adult at 3- 4’ in length. In most cases the color of the snake blends well with the rocks and soil of its habitat. This rattler has blotches anteriorly and crossbands posteriorly. Either may have open centers and they may be conspicuous or obscure. There are a few dark bands on the tail, the posteriormost often encompassing the first segment of the rattle. Neonates are similar to the adults but the pattern may be sharper. Scales keeled.

 

Unique Features:

This another of the snakes where variability prevents discussing a particular feature. The fact that the supraocular scale (the large scale above the eye) is creased or rough-edged is almost impossible to determine in the field. That the rostral scale is separated from the prenasals by a semicircle of small scales is also difficult. The relatively obscure dark banding on the tail is a bit easier to view and may be the best fieldmark.

 

Habitat and Diet:

Rocky terrain, boulder fields, or combinations, be they in canyons or brushy desert, are home to this rattlesnake. Preys on rodents and ground nesting birds as well as lizards. Ovoviviparous. Juveniles similar to adults

 

Geographic Range:

CA, NV