How to Recognize a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

The Western diamondback rattlesnake is one of the most feared snakes in the United States and with good reason. A bite from this Southwestern viper can cause massive tissue damage, bleeding and in some cases death. Knowing how to identify this dangerous rattlesnake is vital if you live anywhere in the range it inhabits. It's home is the Southwest, from the desert to rocky hillsides and everywhere in between. Even if you do not live in the range of the Western diamondback, it would be a good lesson to learn how to identify it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. This powerful snake is generally quite testy and will strike quickly and easily. It is a fearsome predator and has the size to intimidate. This rattlesnake can grow up to 7 feet and is a thick-bodied snake as well.

2. Usually, folks notice the trademark rattle when they encounter a rattlesnake of any kind. The Western diamondback, like all rattlesnakes, do not always rattle when aroused. This can lead to accidental bites and that can be deadly. Do not depend on the rattle of a rattlesnake to identify it. By the time you find out otherwise, it is to late.

3. Visually, the Western diamondback is quite beautiful. It can range in color from a brown color all the way to a pink hue and all the colors in between. The habitat that it is found in will determine its color most often. It has diamond shapes running down the length of the back and they are outlined by lighter colored scales.

4. The business end of the Western diamondback is quite impressive and intimidating. They have large triangular heads, with the trademark pits in its snout that all pit vipers have. Inside this mouth are two hypodermic sharp fangs that will inject venom when the snake bites most often. Additionally, the Western diamondback rattlesnake has two black stripes diagonally down the side of its face from the eyes.

5. Another telling feature of the Western diamondback rattlesnake is the alternating black and white rings around the tail of the snake below the rattles. The Western diamondback is a beautiful creature indeed, in spite of the deadly capability it possesses.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember the key characteristics; approximately 7 feet in adults, diamond-shaped head with black stripes from the eyes down, diamond pattern on its back and black and white rings alternating down its tail below the rattle.
• Do not approach any rattlesnake.
• A rattlesnake can strike at a distance equal to half of its body length.
• This snake is quite dangerous, so stand well back to shoot photos with your digital camera.
• Always keep your eye on the Western diamondback even at a distance.