Rattle Snake Life Cycle

There are 16 species of rattle snakes. They can be found throughout the United States, but many are concentrated in the southwest. All are venomous, and have a very distinct warning when predators come too close; they make a rattling noise with the rattles at the end of their tails. Rattle snakes can live up to 30 years in captivity, but those in the wild die much earlier due to predators and accidents.

Mating

Rattle snakes reach maturity at three years, and mate in the spring. They reproduce every two years.

Birth

Rattle snakes give birth to live babies. The female snake carries eggs inside her body for 90 days after fertilization. Then the eggs hatch and the baby snakes are born.

Young Rattle Snakes

Rattle snakes are about 10 inches at birth, and highly venomous. They do not have rattles when born.

Out of the Nest

In less than 10 days, the baby rattle snakes are out on their own. During the first 10 days, the snakes shed their skin and get their first rattle.

Dangers

Young snakes often don't live through their first year. They are easy prey for birds and other animals, and can have difficulty finding food.

References

• Desert USA: Rattle Snakes