Prairie Rattlesnake

Crotalus viridis viridis

Venom Status:

Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Ground color of this 3 to 4 foot long rattlesnake may vary from yellowish green, through gray, olive, or brown, but almost always with a greenish tinge. Dorsally, strongly blotched anteriorly, more narrowly barred near midbody and banded posteriorly. Both dorsal and the row of smaller lateral spots are white edged. 2 light facial stripes foremost diagonally from in front of eye to and following jawline rearward, 2nd from behind eye diagonally to posterior to the jaws. Tail colored like body. Note the vertical pupils and infrared sensing pit between, but lower than, the nostril and eye. Ovoviviparous. Juveniles similar to adults but more brightly banded. Scales are keeled

 

Unique Features:

Several species of rattlesnake, including this one, have 2 white facial stripes. When used in conjunction with range the facial stripes will help with the identification of the widespread prairie rattle

 

Habitat and Diet:

This is a rattlesnake of open western grasslands but may be encountered in autumn on mountain ledges where it often hibernates. It is also often found in or near prairie dog colonies. It is most active at dusk and after dark. Preys on rodents and ground nesting birds as well as lizards.

 

Geographic Range:

TX, AZ, CO, ID, MT, ID, KS, NE, UT, IA, WY, NM, ND, OK, SD