How to Identify the Pygmy Rattlesnake

Beware of venomous snakes

The pygmy rattlesnake is one of the smallest snakes around but do not let the size fool you. This rattlesnake is fully equipped and can harm you given the chance to bite. Often mistaken for other species, the pygmy rattlesnake is actually quite reclusive. It would much rather stay far away from humans and will do all it can to avoid confrontation. If you live anywhere the pygmy resides, you should be aware of how to identify this dangerous little rattlesnake.

Things You'll Need

• Binoculars

Instructions

1. Learn where to find the pygmy rattlesnake. Pygmy rattlesnakes generally prefer to be in sand hills and coastal plains. Different species reside in North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina and are most plentiful toward the coast. They will often linger around water sources such as creeks and streams throughout this range.

2. Avoid the temptation to assume the small stature of these snakes means it is not dangerous. The pygmy rattlesnake is usually around 15 to 23 inches long, but packs a pretty nasty, venomous bite. The rattle is often so small that you do not even hear it when it sounds the warning.

3. Notice that the pygmy species vary wildly with color. The dusky pygmy and the Carolina pygmy can both be any number of base colors. They have been known to be red, gray, tan, lavender and even orange. Both species have a row of spots and a bar that runs from the eye to the jawline. This bar is usually black.

4. Realize that due to the small size, and incredible ability to stay hidden from view, the pygmy is rarely seen in the wild. Though it is not considered endangered, the Pygmy is protected in North Carolina and Tennessee. Most pygmy rattlesnakes that are seen in the wild are found crossing roadways or basking in the heat.

5. Practice safe viewing if you ever encounter a pygmy rattlesnake. Use binoculars if you wish to get a close-up view. Always give a snake a wide berth, as even the tiny pygmy rattlesnake can strike with lightning quick accuracy. Never attempt to hold this snake.

6. Remember that the pygmy is very small, and the babies are even smaller. The pygmy gives birth to young that are born with a yellow tail. Much like the North American copperhead, they use this yellow appendage to lure prey close by, wiggling it like a worm.

7. Realize that the dusky pygmy is often covered in dark splotches and colored black underneath. This can lead to a mistaken identity of the snake, as the tell-tale pattern is often obscured.

Tips & Warnings

• Always give any snake plenty of space.

• Keep your awareness level high when in the pygmy rattlers range.

• Never attempt to handle this or any snake.

• Bites by the pygmy rattlesnake can be serious.

• If bitten, get medical attention immediately.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish