Safety note: Venomous — keep distance
The Western Rattlesnake encompasses several subspecies across the Pacific states. It varies considerably in color and pattern across its range. A sit-and-wait predator that relies on heat-sensing pits to detect prey.
Habitat
Rocky hillsides, chaparral, grasslands, and open forests
Diet
Rodents, rabbits, and lizards
How common
Common
Best time to see a Western Rattlesnake
The best time to see a Western Rattlesnake is March–June, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 35,586 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Western Rattlesnake sightings near you
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5,300+species
63national parks
50states
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