Types of Rattle Snakes

Rattlesnakes are highly specialized organisms that both frighten and fascinate humans. These snakes are native to North and South America and live in all contiguous states. Texas and Arizona have the largest population of rattlesnake species and subspecies. They reside in different biomes from coastal areas at sea level, inland prairies, deserts and mountains at elevations less than 10,000 ft. Two distinguishing features of all types of rattlesnakes are triangular heads and jointed rattles on their tails.

  1. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

    • The largest venomous snake in North America is the Eastern Diamondback. Its body is a shade of brown, tan or yellowish with distinctive diamond patterns. Heavy bodies and large heads are distinguishing characteristics of this type of rattlesnake. They are commonly found in dry sandy areas and avoid wet areas, but sometimes live beside swamps. Rabbits provide their primary food source.

    Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

    • The second largest rattlesnake in North America is the Western Diamondback. More serious bites and fatalities result from this snake than any other in the United States and Mexico. The venom from this snake is a mixture of poisons that cause tissue damage and hemorrhaging. This hardy snake can survive in various climates including mountains, inland plains, desert areas and the seacoast. Because this type of rattlesnake bite is so common, anti-venom serum is always available in places the snakes inhabit.

    Western Prairie Rattlesnake

    • This North American snake is prevalent from the Canadian western provinces and south across the United States down to Mexico. The Western Prairie rattlesnake is the only venomous snake in North Dakota. It ranges from light brown to green in color and has blotches that become crossbands on the back of the body. Rings around the tail set it apart from other rattlesnakes. Its rattling sound is its most recognizable feature.

    Timber Rattlesnake

    • This venomous snake is located in the eastern part of the United States around Massachusetts and New Hampshire. These snakes prefer dense forest areas with low-hanging branches for foraging. When threatened, they vibrate their tails, producing a loud buzzing sound. Reports of bites from this type of rattlesnake are extremely rare. They primarily stay hidden in dark, damp timber areas and feed on chipmunks, moles, mice, weasels and birds.

    Mojave Rattlesnake

    • This snake lives in the Mojave Desert of California. Of all the types of rattlesnakes, the Mojave have the most potent venom. A bite from this snake produces localized pain, swelling and tissue discoloration and can produce neurologic effects quickly, such as restricted breathing. The Mojave rattlesnake is a pit viper, meaning it has a heat-sensing pit on either side of its head. This snake is similar in appearance to and sometimes confused with the Western Diamondback because of the diamond patterns. The diamonds on this greenish-colored snake fade as they extend back to the tail.