Although the venom of the diamondback isn’t particularly toxic, the size of the snake allows a larger capacity of venom which is released from its two prominent fangs. It’s not uncommon that only one bite mark from one fang is visible after a strike. Fangs can break or bend, or the bite area may be small, causing a miss. All pit vipers have the ability to control the flow of venom through their fangs, allowing the diamondback to release most of its venom in a single strike (though often a pit viper will not release any of its venom). The venom capacity combined with the aggressiveness of the snake make it dangerous and lethal, and responsible for several recorded deaths. Read the rest of this entry »

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Natural History

All rattlesnakes are venomous, and therefore potentially dangerous if approached or handled. Rattlesnakes are not generally aggressive and will most likely flee if given a chance to retreat. Found from the flatlands and prairies to the rocky hills and low mountains, the Western Diamondback is a key participant in the food web; it is an important predator of many small rodents, rabbits, and birds. The Western Diamondback is in turn preyed upon by a variety of larger mammals and birds, such as coyotes, foxes, and hawks. Read the rest of this entry »

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Crotalus atrox may be confused with a number of snakes found in Texas, most of which are non-venomous. The majority of these snakes, however, lack the key feature of a rattle found at the end of the tail. Many snakes, including gopher snakes (Pituophis) and hognose snakes (Heterodon) may show an impressive threat display and have similar brown and tan markings, but lack the rattles. Some rattle-less snakes such as rat snakes and copperheads may vibrate their tails. Read the rest of this entry »

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Crotalus atrox is a venomous pit viper species found in the United States and Mexico. It is likely responsible for the majority of snakebite fatalities in northern Mexico and the second greatest number in the USA after C. adamanteus. No subspecies are currently recognized.

Common names

Western diamondback rattlesnake, western diamond-backed rattlesnake, Adobe snake, Arizona diamond rattlesnake, coon tail, desert diamond-back, desert diamond rattlesnake, fierce rattlesnake, spitting rattlesnake, Texan rattlesnake, Texas diamond-back (rattlesnake). Read the rest of this entry »

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