Species Reptiles & AmphibiansWestern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Crotalus atrox

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)
Safety note: Venomous — keep distance

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is responsible for more snakebite fatalities in the U.S. than any other species. Its diamond pattern and bold black-and-white banded tail make it distinctive. It is active year-round in warmer areas.

Habitat
Desert scrub, rocky terrain, and grasslands of the Southwest
Diet
Rodents, rabbits, and birds
How common
Common

Best time to see a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

The best time to see a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is April–August, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 26,673 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Western Diamondback Rattlesnake sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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