What is the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake's Habitat?

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest species of rattlesnake. Large and venomous, this snake that can strike up to 2/3 of its body length. Although it prefers secluded areas, the Eastern Diamondback can be found in populated, urban settings.

Natural Habitat

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake "usually inhabits dry sandy areas, flatwoods, pinewoods and coastal dunes," according to the University of Georgia website.

Southeast U.S.

This snake is found in the lower parts of the Southeast in the United States, from southern North Carolina to eastern Louisiana. The "stronghold" of the snake's range is Florida and southern Georgia.

Wetlands

Eastern Diamondbacks are strong swimmers and can sometimes be found "along the edges of swamps," according to UGA.com.

Urban Areas

As a result of urbanization, particularly in Florida, the snake can now occasionally be found in "backyards, golf courses and even parking lots," according to FLMNH.com.

Florida Keys

According to the Jacksonville Zoo website, the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake has been known to "venture into salt water" and "swim to the Florida Keys."

References

• Florida Museum of Natural History
• Humane Society of the United States
• University of Georgia

Resources

• Jacksonville Zoo