How to Draw a Diamondback Rattlesnake

Diamondback rattlesnakes are one of the most poisonous and notorious snakes in the United States. There are a variety of diamondback rattlesnake species inhabiting the southeastern, southern and western United States. These pitvipers are recognized by the diamond pattern that appears on their scales, their brown color and, of course, their rattle. When threatened, the diamondback rattlesnake will assume an S-shape position.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Eraser
• White paper

Instructions

1. 

   Draw the body of the diamondback rattlesnake. The body should curve in an S-shape with the narrowest point being at the ends.

2. 

   Draw the rattle at the tip of the diamondback rattlesnake's tail. Also, draw the head, which is a shield shape.

3. 

   Draw a zigzag line across the top arch of the diamondback rattlesnake, on the right side of its body and down to its head.

4. 

   Draw large diamond shapes, close to the entire width of the diamondback rattlesnake's back, starting from where the zigzag ended on its body and all the way to its rattle.

5. 

   Complete the diamond-shape pattern where you'd drawn the zigzag in Step 3. Draw the continuation of the diamond pattern where there are gaps on the top of the diamondback rattlesnake.

6. 

   Draw the scales on the diamondback rattlesnake, which are a series of small squiggly lines. Look at the image for guidance: a larger version of the squiggle with the to-scale size are drawn above the snake.

References

• Diamondback Rattlesnake Model
• National Geographic Article on Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes