#Viperidae Viperinae

[exotic-venom]

(Bitis caudalis) horned adder, horned puff adder Very few bites & no human fatalities recorded. Venom primarily cytotoxic, w/ local swelling & intense pain & vomiting, little or no necrosis. Venom of this species is mildly anticoagulant & possibly the least potent of any species in this genus.

[dendroica]

An adder in a heathland area of the South Downs national park in England on World Snake Day, 16 July

Photograph: Heathlands Reunited/South Downs national park

(via The week in wildlife – in pictures | Environment | The Guardian)

[that-crazy-scorpio-man]

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Different Types of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. They inspire fear in some, and awe in others. There are many different types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique set of characteristics. Learning more about rattlesnakes can help you to better understand and appreciate these scary yet amazing creatures.

What Are Rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous snake that is found in North America. They are easily recognizable by their rattle, which is used to warn predators and prey of their presence. There are many types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique appearance and behavior.

Classification of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes can be found in different parts of the country. They generally live near water or wetland habitats like swamps, marshes, and riverbanks. Rattlesnakes are part of the kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, and Class Reptilia. They are all part of the order Squamata which includes reptiles that have scales.

Rattlesnakes are part of the clade Ophidia, which also includes all kinds of snakes. Rattlesnakes, like other snakes, belong to the suborder Serpentes. This suborder contains two infraorders, Alethinophidia and Scolecophidia. Rattlesnakes are in the infraorder Alethinophidia, which includes all venomous snakes, while Scolecophidia only has a small number of blind snakes.

The infraorder Alethinophida is divided into several superfamilies. Rattlesnakes are in the family Viperidae, which includes all vipers, the most venomous type of snake. Within Viperidae, there are 3 subfamilies: Crotalinae, Viperinae, and Azemiopinae. Rattlesnakes are in the subfamily Crotalinae, which includes pit vipers.

In the Crotalinae family, there are two genera: Sistrurus and Crotalus. Genus Crotalus has a much bigger range, numbering from 30 to 60 species, while Sistrurus only has 3 species. The Pygmy Rattlesnake, the Massasauga rattlesnake, and Mexican massasauga.

The Different Types of Rattlesnakes

There are different 'rattlesnake species' with a few classified as venomous and the rest simply being considered non-venomous. Here are some of the common types of rattlesnakes:

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus adamanteus) can be found in the southeastern United States. They are one of the heaviest venomous snakes in the world weighing an average of 34 pounds. They have a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on their back and are usually a gray or light brown color.

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Western diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) are found in the southwestern United States. They are lighter in color than their eastern counterpart and have more of a brownish hue. They are also the most common rattlesnake in the United States and are responsible for the highest number of venomous snake bites.

The Timber Rattlesnake

Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) are found in the eastern United States and are a common sight in Minnesota. They get their name from the fact that they like to live in forests near water. They are small pit vipers that generally weigh 3-5 pounds. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light stripes down their back.

The Mojave Rattlesnake

Mojave rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus) is found in the southwestern desert from the name itself, the Mojave Desert, California. It is also seen in Central Mexico. It has a light brown or tan coloring with dark blotches along its back. They are heavy-bodied snakes with heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils.

Mojave rattlesnakes are most known for their aggressiveness and for being one of the most venomous snakes in North America.

The Massasauga Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is found all through North America. It is also found in the south-central United States and Northern Mexico. The massasauga is a small pit-viper rattlesnake that only grows to be about 2-3 feet long. They have a gray or light brown coloring with dark black markings.

Massasauga rattlesnakes have a pit on each side of their head which helps them sense heat. They often don't rely on their rattle to warn predators and people away and will instead vibrate their tails when threatened.

The Pygmy Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is found in the southeastern United States. It is the smallest, but a thick, rattlesnake in North America and only grows to be about 18-24 inches long. Their body color can be light or dark gray. They have a black nose and small rattles on the end of their tail.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are divided into three subspecies, and they are all found in the southeastern United States. These rattlesnakes mostly lived in pine forests and near water. They are poisonous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent as they don't produce much.

The Prairie Rattlesnake

The prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is the most common rattlesnake in North America and can be found in almost every state. They are light brown or gray with a series of dark, zigzag stripes running down their back. Their greyish-white belly has a series of black spots.

Prairie rattlesnakes are the largest of the rattlesnake species in North America and can grow to be up to 4 feet long. They have a wide head with deep pits on either side, which help them sense prey or danger.

Mexican West Coast Rattlesnake

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes (Crotalus Basiliscus) are found in the Baja California Peninsula and the state of Sonora. They are often found near grasslands. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light bands down their back. They are one of the largest rattlesnakes in the world, reaching up to 5 feet in length.

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes are not as aggressive as some of the other rattlesnake species and will often try to avoid a confrontation. They are venomous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent.

The Horned Rattlesnake

Horned rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerastes) are known for their horns, which are actually just small scales that project from the back of their head, and help gives protection to their eyes. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found in the southwestern United States and in Northern Mexico.

Horned rattlesnakes are small-sized pit-viper rattlesnakes. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. They are also known for their sidewinding motion, which helps them move easily through sand and loose soil.

Santa Catalina Rattlesnake

The Santa Catalina rattlesnake (Crotalus catalinensis), also called the black-tailed rattlesnake, is found on Santa Catalina Island off the coast of southern California. They are unique rattlesnakes as they cannot produce the "rattle" sound that the other rattlesnakes make. These rattlesnakes are on the endangered species list due to habitat loss.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnake

The Southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus helleri) is found in the western United States. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found near water and in rocky areas.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes are large snakes, reaching up to 6 feet long. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. Their toxin attacks nerve endings and contains myotoxins and hemotoxins that can cause serious organ and tissue damage.

Conclusion

Rattlesnakes have always inspired fear in people, but they are fascinating creatures. And though rattlesnake bites can be deadly, they are not as common as one would think.

Learning more about these types of rattlesnakes will help people be more aware and understand these snakes better. So instead of feeling scared or threatened, we can appreciate these creatures for the unique and amazing animals that they are.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rattlesnakes

What is the most common rattlesnake?

The most common species of snake in North America are the timber rattlesnake and prairie rattlesnake. All three of these snakes have ranges that cover much of the continent. These rattlesnakes are so-called pit vipers. They have a heat-sensing pit on each side of their head between the eye and the nostril.

How many species of rattlesnakes are there in the US?

There are 32 species of rattlesnakes and 83 subspecies that fall into two genera. Rattlesnakes can be found in North America, Central America, South America, and some islands in the Caribbean. They are a part of the pit viper family which also includes copperheads and water moccasins.

What is the biggest rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest type of rattlesnake. It can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to fifteen pounds. This snake is found in the southeastern United States, and it is considered to be the most dangerous snake in North America.

What is the most venomous rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest and most venomous snake in North America. The snake has a black body with a series of white diamond-shaped markings down its back. It gets its name from the small, diamond-shaped scales on the back of its head.

What state has the most rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are found in almost every part of the United States, but they're especially common in the Southwest. States like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico have the highest populations of rattlesnakes.

Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

Locally Published on: https://salt-lake-city.aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

[aaacmobile]

Different Types of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. They inspire fear in some, and awe in others. There are many different types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique set of characteristics. Learning more about rattlesnakes can help you to better understand and appreciate these scary yet amazing creatures.

What Are Rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous snake that is found in North America. They are easily recognizable by their rattle, which is used to warn predators and prey of their presence. There are many types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique appearance and behavior.

Classification of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes can be found in different parts of the country. They generally live near water or wetland habitats like swamps, marshes, and riverbanks. Rattlesnakes are part of the kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, and Class Reptilia. They are all part of the order Squamata which includes reptiles that have scales.

Rattlesnakes are part of the clade Ophidia, which also includes all kinds of snakes. Rattlesnakes, like other snakes, belong to the suborder Serpentes. This suborder contains two infraorders, Alethinophidia and Scolecophidia. Rattlesnakes are in the infraorder Alethinophidia, which includes all venomous snakes, while Scolecophidia only has a small number of blind snakes.

The infraorder Alethinophida is divided into several superfamilies. Rattlesnakes are in the family Viperidae, which includes all vipers, the most venomous type of snake. Within Viperidae, there are 3 subfamilies: Crotalinae, Viperinae, and Azemiopinae. Rattlesnakes are in the subfamily Crotalinae, which includes pit vipers.

In the Crotalinae family, there are two genera: Sistrurus and Crotalus. Genus Crotalus has a much bigger range, numbering from 30 to 60 species, while Sistrurus only has 3 species. The Pygmy Rattlesnake, the Massasauga rattlesnake, and Mexican massasauga.

The Different Types of Rattlesnakes

There are different 'rattlesnake species' with a few classified as venomous and the rest simply being considered non-venomous. Here are some of the common types of rattlesnakes:

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus adamanteus) can be found in the southeastern United States. They are one of the heaviest venomous snakes in the world weighing an average of 34 pounds. They have a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on their back and are usually a gray or light brown color.

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Western diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) are found in the southwestern United States. They are lighter in color than their eastern counterpart and have more of a brownish hue. They are also the most common rattlesnake in the United States and are responsible for the highest number of venomous snake bites.

The Timber Rattlesnake

Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) are found in the eastern United States and are a common sight in Minnesota. They get their name from the fact that they like to live in forests near water. They are small pit vipers that generally weigh 3-5 pounds. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light stripes down their back.

The Mojave Rattlesnake

Mojave rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus) is found in the southwestern desert from the name itself, the Mojave Desert, California. It is also seen in Central Mexico. It has a light brown or tan coloring with dark blotches along its back. They are heavy-bodied snakes with heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils.

Mojave rattlesnakes are most known for their aggressiveness and for being one of the most venomous snakes in North America.

The Massasauga Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is found all through North America. It is also found in the south-central United States and Northern Mexico. The massasauga is a small pit-viper rattlesnake that only grows to be about 2-3 feet long. They have a gray or light brown coloring with dark black markings.

Massasauga rattlesnakes have a pit on each side of their head which helps them sense heat. They often don't rely on their rattle to warn predators and people away and will instead vibrate their tails when threatened.

The Pygmy Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is found in the southeastern United States. It is the smallest, but a thick, rattlesnake in North America and only grows to be about 18-24 inches long. Their body color can be light or dark gray. They have a black nose and small rattles on the end of their tail.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are divided into three subspecies, and they are all found in the southeastern United States. These rattlesnakes mostly lived in pine forests and near water. They are poisonous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent as they don't produce much.

The Prairie Rattlesnake

The prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is the most common rattlesnake in North America and can be found in almost every state. They are light brown or gray with a series of dark, zigzag stripes running down their back. Their greyish-white belly has a series of black spots.

Prairie rattlesnakes are the largest of the rattlesnake species in North America and can grow to be up to 4 feet long. They have a wide head with deep pits on either side, which help them sense prey or danger.

Mexican West Coast Rattlesnake

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes (Crotalus Basiliscus) are found in the Baja California Peninsula and the state of Sonora. They are often found near grasslands. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light bands down their back. They are one of the largest rattlesnakes in the world, reaching up to 5 feet in length.

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes are not as aggressive as some of the other rattlesnake species and will often try to avoid a confrontation. They are venomous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent.

The Horned Rattlesnake

Horned rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerastes) are known for their horns, which are actually just small scales that project from the back of their head, and help gives protection to their eyes. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found in the southwestern United States and in Northern Mexico.

Horned rattlesnakes are small-sized pit-viper rattlesnakes. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. They are also known for their sidewinding motion, which helps them move easily through sand and loose soil.

Santa Catalina Rattlesnake

The Santa Catalina rattlesnake (Crotalus catalinensis), also called the black-tailed rattlesnake, is found on Santa Catalina Island off the coast of southern California. They are unique rattlesnakes as they cannot produce the "rattle" sound that the other rattlesnakes make. These rattlesnakes are on the endangered species list due to habitat loss.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnake

The Southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus helleri) is found in the western United States. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found near water and in rocky areas.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes are large snakes, reaching up to 6 feet long. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. Their toxin attacks nerve endings and contains myotoxins and hemotoxins that can cause serious organ and tissue damage.

Conclusion

Rattlesnakes have always inspired fear in people, but they are fascinating creatures. And though rattlesnake bites can be deadly, they are not as common as one would think.

Learning more about these types of rattlesnakes will help people be more aware and understand these snakes better. So instead of feeling scared or threatened, we can appreciate these creatures for the unique and amazing animals that they are.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rattlesnakes

What is the most common rattlesnake?

The most common species of snake in North America are the timber rattlesnake and prairie rattlesnake. All three of these snakes have ranges that cover much of the continent. These rattlesnakes are so-called pit vipers. They have a heat-sensing pit on each side of their head between the eye and the nostril.

How many species of rattlesnakes are there in the US?

There are 32 species of rattlesnakes and 83 subspecies that fall into two genera. Rattlesnakes can be found in North America, Central America, South America, and some islands in the Caribbean. They are a part of the pit viper family which also includes copperheads and water moccasins.

What is the biggest rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest type of rattlesnake. It can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to fifteen pounds. This snake is found in the southeastern United States, and it is considered to be the most dangerous snake in North America.

What is the most venomous rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest and most venomous snake in North America. The snake has a black body with a series of white diamond-shaped markings down its back. It gets its name from the small, diamond-shaped scales on the back of its head.

What state has the most rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are found in almost every part of the United States, but they're especially common in the Southwest. States like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico have the highest populations of rattlesnakes.

Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

Locally Published on: https://mobile.aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

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Different Types of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. They inspire fear in some, and awe in others. There are many different types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique set of characteristics. Learning more about rattlesnakes can help you to better understand and appreciate these scary yet amazing creatures.

What Are Rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous snake that is found in North America. They are easily recognizable by their rattle, which is used to warn predators and prey of their presence. There are many types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique appearance and behavior.

Classification of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes can be found in different parts of the country. They generally live near water or wetland habitats like swamps, marshes, and riverbanks. Rattlesnakes are part of the kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, and Class Reptilia. They are all part of the order Squamata which includes reptiles that have scales.

Rattlesnakes are part of the clade Ophidia, which also includes all kinds of snakes. Rattlesnakes, like other snakes, belong to the suborder Serpentes. This suborder contains two infraorders, Alethinophidia and Scolecophidia. Rattlesnakes are in the infraorder Alethinophidia, which includes all venomous snakes, while Scolecophidia only has a small number of blind snakes.

The infraorder Alethinophida is divided into several superfamilies. Rattlesnakes are in the family Viperidae, which includes all vipers, the most venomous type of snake. Within Viperidae, there are 3 subfamilies: Crotalinae, Viperinae, and Azemiopinae. Rattlesnakes are in the subfamily Crotalinae, which includes pit vipers.

In the Crotalinae family, there are two genera: Sistrurus and Crotalus. Genus Crotalus has a much bigger range, numbering from 30 to 60 species, while Sistrurus only has 3 species. The Pygmy Rattlesnake, the Massasauga rattlesnake, and Mexican massasauga.

The Different Types of Rattlesnakes

There are different 'rattlesnake species' with a few classified as venomous and the rest simply being considered non-venomous. Here are some of the common types of rattlesnakes:

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus adamanteus) can be found in the southeastern United States. They are one of the heaviest venomous snakes in the world weighing an average of 34 pounds. They have a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on their back and are usually a gray or light brown color.

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Western diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) are found in the southwestern United States. They are lighter in color than their eastern counterpart and have more of a brownish hue. They are also the most common rattlesnake in the United States and are responsible for the highest number of venomous snake bites.

The Timber Rattlesnake

Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) are found in the eastern United States and are a common sight in Minnesota. They get their name from the fact that they like to live in forests near water. They are small pit vipers that generally weigh 3-5 pounds. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light stripes down their back.

The Mojave Rattlesnake

Mojave rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus) is found in the southwestern desert from the name itself, the Mojave Desert, California. It is also seen in Central Mexico. It has a light brown or tan coloring with dark blotches along its back. They are heavy-bodied snakes with heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils.

Mojave rattlesnakes are most known for their aggressiveness and for being one of the most venomous snakes in North America.

The Massasauga Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is found all through North America. It is also found in the south-central United States and Northern Mexico. The massasauga is a small pit-viper rattlesnake that only grows to be about 2-3 feet long. They have a gray or light brown coloring with dark black markings.

Massasauga rattlesnakes have a pit on each side of their head which helps them sense heat. They often don't rely on their rattle to warn predators and people away and will instead vibrate their tails when threatened.

The Pygmy Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is found in the southeastern United States. It is the smallest, but a thick, rattlesnake in North America and only grows to be about 18-24 inches long. Their body color can be light or dark gray. They have a black nose and small rattles on the end of their tail.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are divided into three subspecies, and they are all found in the southeastern United States. These rattlesnakes mostly lived in pine forests and near water. They are poisonous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent as they don't produce much.

The Prairie Rattlesnake

The prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is the most common rattlesnake in North America and can be found in almost every state. They are light brown or gray with a series of dark, zigzag stripes running down their back. Their greyish-white belly has a series of black spots.

Prairie rattlesnakes are the largest of the rattlesnake species in North America and can grow to be up to 4 feet long. They have a wide head with deep pits on either side, which help them sense prey or danger.

Mexican West Coast Rattlesnake

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes (Crotalus Basiliscus) are found in the Baja California Peninsula and the state of Sonora. They are often found near grasslands. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light bands down their back. They are one of the largest rattlesnakes in the world, reaching up to 5 feet in length.

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes are not as aggressive as some of the other rattlesnake species and will often try to avoid a confrontation. They are venomous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent.

The Horned Rattlesnake

Horned rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerastes) are known for their horns, which are actually just small scales that project from the back of their head, and help gives protection to their eyes. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found in the southwestern United States and in Northern Mexico.

Horned rattlesnakes are small-sized pit-viper rattlesnakes. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. They are also known for their sidewinding motion, which helps them move easily through sand and loose soil.

Santa Catalina Rattlesnake

The Santa Catalina rattlesnake (Crotalus catalinensis), also called the black-tailed rattlesnake, is found on Santa Catalina Island off the coast of southern California. They are unique rattlesnakes as they cannot produce the "rattle" sound that the other rattlesnakes make. These rattlesnakes are on the endangered species list due to habitat loss.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnake

The Southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus helleri) is found in the western United States. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found near water and in rocky areas.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes are large snakes, reaching up to 6 feet long. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. Their toxin attacks nerve endings and contains myotoxins and hemotoxins that can cause serious organ and tissue damage.

Conclusion

Rattlesnakes have always inspired fear in people, but they are fascinating creatures. And though rattlesnake bites can be deadly, they are not as common as one would think.

Learning more about these types of rattlesnakes will help people be more aware and understand these snakes better. So instead of feeling scared or threatened, we can appreciate these creatures for the unique and amazing animals that they are.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rattlesnakes

What is the most common rattlesnake?

The most common species of snake in North America are the timber rattlesnake and prairie rattlesnake. All three of these snakes have ranges that cover much of the continent. These rattlesnakes are so-called pit vipers. They have a heat-sensing pit on each side of their head between the eye and the nostril.

How many species of rattlesnakes are there in the US?

There are 32 species of rattlesnakes and 83 subspecies that fall into two genera. Rattlesnakes can be found in North America, Central America, South America, and some islands in the Caribbean. They are a part of the pit viper family which also includes copperheads and water moccasins.

What is the biggest rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest type of rattlesnake. It can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to fifteen pounds. This snake is found in the southeastern United States, and it is considered to be the most dangerous snake in North America.

What is the most venomous rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest and most venomous snake in North America. The snake has a black body with a series of white diamond-shaped markings down its back. It gets its name from the small, diamond-shaped scales on the back of its head.

What state has the most rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are found in almost every part of the United States, but they're especially common in the Southwest. States like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico have the highest populations of rattlesnakes.

Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

Locally Published on: https://phoenix.aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

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Different Types of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. They inspire fear in some, and awe in others. There are many different types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique set of characteristics. Learning more about rattlesnakes can help you to better understand and appreciate these scary yet amazing creatures.

What Are Rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous snake that is found in North America. They are easily recognizable by their rattle, which is used to warn predators and prey of their presence. There are many types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique appearance and behavior.

Classification of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes can be found in different parts of the country. They generally live near water or wetland habitats like swamps, marshes, and riverbanks. Rattlesnakes are part of the kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, and Class Reptilia. They are all part of the order Squamata which includes reptiles that have scales.

Rattlesnakes are part of the clade Ophidia, which also includes all kinds of snakes. Rattlesnakes, like other snakes, belong to the suborder Serpentes. This suborder contains two infraorders, Alethinophidia and Scolecophidia. Rattlesnakes are in the infraorder Alethinophidia, which includes all venomous snakes, while Scolecophidia only has a small number of blind snakes.

The infraorder Alethinophida is divided into several superfamilies. Rattlesnakes are in the family Viperidae, which includes all vipers, the most venomous type of snake. Within Viperidae, there are 3 subfamilies: Crotalinae, Viperinae, and Azemiopinae. Rattlesnakes are in the subfamily Crotalinae, which includes pit vipers.

In the Crotalinae family, there are two genera: Sistrurus and Crotalus. Genus Crotalus has a much bigger range, numbering from 30 to 60 species, while Sistrurus only has 3 species. The Pygmy Rattlesnake, the Massasauga rattlesnake, and Mexican massasauga.

The Different Types of Rattlesnakes

There are different 'rattlesnake species' with a few classified as venomous and the rest simply being considered non-venomous. Here are some of the common types of rattlesnakes:

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus adamanteus) can be found in the southeastern United States. They are one of the heaviest venomous snakes in the world weighing an average of 34 pounds. They have a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on their back and are usually a gray or light brown color.

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Western diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) are found in the southwestern United States. They are lighter in color than their eastern counterpart and have more of a brownish hue. They are also the most common rattlesnake in the United States and are responsible for the highest number of venomous snake bites.

The Timber Rattlesnake

Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) are found in the eastern United States and are a common sight in Minnesota. They get their name from the fact that they like to live in forests near water. They are small pit vipers that generally weigh 3-5 pounds. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light stripes down their back.

The Mojave Rattlesnake

Mojave rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus) is found in the southwestern desert from the name itself, the Mojave Desert, California. It is also seen in Central Mexico. It has a light brown or tan coloring with dark blotches along its back. They are heavy-bodied snakes with heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils.

Mojave rattlesnakes are most known for their aggressiveness and for being one of the most venomous snakes in North America.

The Massasauga Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is found all through North America. It is also found in the south-central United States and Northern Mexico. The massasauga is a small pit-viper rattlesnake that only grows to be about 2-3 feet long. They have a gray or light brown coloring with dark black markings.

Massasauga rattlesnakes have a pit on each side of their head which helps them sense heat. They often don't rely on their rattle to warn predators and people away and will instead vibrate their tails when threatened.

The Pygmy Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is found in the southeastern United States. It is the smallest, but a thick, rattlesnake in North America and only grows to be about 18-24 inches long. Their body color can be light or dark gray. They have a black nose and small rattles on the end of their tail.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are divided into three subspecies, and they are all found in the southeastern United States. These rattlesnakes mostly lived in pine forests and near water. They are poisonous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent as they don't produce much.

The Prairie Rattlesnake

The prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is the most common rattlesnake in North America and can be found in almost every state. They are light brown or gray with a series of dark, zigzag stripes running down their back. Their greyish-white belly has a series of black spots.

Prairie rattlesnakes are the largest of the rattlesnake species in North America and can grow to be up to 4 feet long. They have a wide head with deep pits on either side, which help them sense prey or danger.

Mexican West Coast Rattlesnake

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes (Crotalus Basiliscus) are found in the Baja California Peninsula and the state of Sonora. They are often found near grasslands. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light bands down their back. They are one of the largest rattlesnakes in the world, reaching up to 5 feet in length.

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes are not as aggressive as some of the other rattlesnake species and will often try to avoid a confrontation. They are venomous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent.

The Horned Rattlesnake

Horned rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerastes) are known for their horns, which are actually just small scales that project from the back of their head, and help gives protection to their eyes. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found in the southwestern United States and in Northern Mexico.

Horned rattlesnakes are small-sized pit-viper rattlesnakes. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. They are also known for their sidewinding motion, which helps them move easily through sand and loose soil.

Santa Catalina Rattlesnake

The Santa Catalina rattlesnake (Crotalus catalinensis), also called the black-tailed rattlesnake, is found on Santa Catalina Island off the coast of southern California. They are unique rattlesnakes as they cannot produce the "rattle" sound that the other rattlesnakes make. These rattlesnakes are on the endangered species list due to habitat loss.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnake

The Southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus helleri) is found in the western United States. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found near water and in rocky areas.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes are large snakes, reaching up to 6 feet long. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. Their toxin attacks nerve endings and contains myotoxins and hemotoxins that can cause serious organ and tissue damage.

Conclusion

Rattlesnakes have always inspired fear in people, but they are fascinating creatures. And though rattlesnake bites can be deadly, they are not as common as one would think.

Learning more about these types of rattlesnakes will help people be more aware and understand these snakes better. So instead of feeling scared or threatened, we can appreciate these creatures for the unique and amazing animals that they are.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rattlesnakes

What is the most common rattlesnake?

The most common species of snake in North America are the timber rattlesnake and prairie rattlesnake. All three of these snakes have ranges that cover much of the continent. These rattlesnakes are so-called pit vipers. They have a heat-sensing pit on each side of their head between the eye and the nostril.

How many species of rattlesnakes are there in the US?

There are 32 species of rattlesnakes and 83 subspecies that fall into two genera. Rattlesnakes can be found in North America, Central America, South America, and some islands in the Caribbean. They are a part of the pit viper family which also includes copperheads and water moccasins.

What is the biggest rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest type of rattlesnake. It can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to fifteen pounds. This snake is found in the southeastern United States, and it is considered to be the most dangerous snake in North America.

What is the most venomous rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest and most venomous snake in North America. The snake has a black body with a series of white diamond-shaped markings down its back. It gets its name from the small, diamond-shaped scales on the back of its head.

What state has the most rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are found in almost every part of the United States, but they're especially common in the Southwest. States like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico have the highest populations of rattlesnakes.

Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

Locally Published on: https://pittsburgh.aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

[aaacsandiego]

Different Types of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. They inspire fear in some, and awe in others. There are many different types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique set of characteristics. Learning more about rattlesnakes can help you to better understand and appreciate these scary yet amazing creatures.

What Are Rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous snake that is found in North America. They are easily recognizable by their rattle, which is used to warn predators and prey of their presence. There are many types of rattlesnakes, and each has its own unique appearance and behavior.

Classification of Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes can be found in different parts of the country. They generally live near water or wetland habitats like swamps, marshes, and riverbanks. Rattlesnakes are part of the kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, and Class Reptilia. They are all part of the order Squamata which includes reptiles that have scales.

Rattlesnakes are part of the clade Ophidia, which also includes all kinds of snakes. Rattlesnakes, like other snakes, belong to the suborder Serpentes. This suborder contains two infraorders, Alethinophidia and Scolecophidia. Rattlesnakes are in the infraorder Alethinophidia, which includes all venomous snakes, while Scolecophidia only has a small number of blind snakes.

The infraorder Alethinophida is divided into several superfamilies. Rattlesnakes are in the family Viperidae, which includes all vipers, the most venomous type of snake. Within Viperidae, there are 3 subfamilies: Crotalinae, Viperinae, and Azemiopinae. Rattlesnakes are in the subfamily Crotalinae, which includes pit vipers.

In the Crotalinae family, there are two genera: Sistrurus and Crotalus. Genus Crotalus has a much bigger range, numbering from 30 to 60 species, while Sistrurus only has 3 species. The Pygmy Rattlesnake, the Massasauga rattlesnake, and Mexican massasauga.

The Different Types of Rattlesnakes

There are different 'rattlesnake species' with a few classified as venomous and the rest simply being considered non-venomous. Here are some of the common types of rattlesnakes:

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus adamanteus) can be found in the southeastern United States. They are one of the heaviest venomous snakes in the world weighing an average of 34 pounds. They have a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on their back and are usually a gray or light brown color.

The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Western diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) are found in the southwestern United States. They are lighter in color than their eastern counterpart and have more of a brownish hue. They are also the most common rattlesnake in the United States and are responsible for the highest number of venomous snake bites.

The Timber Rattlesnake

Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) are found in the eastern United States and are a common sight in Minnesota. They get their name from the fact that they like to live in forests near water. They are small pit vipers that generally weigh 3-5 pounds. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light stripes down their back.

The Mojave Rattlesnake

Mojave rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus) is found in the southwestern desert from the name itself, the Mojave Desert, California. It is also seen in Central Mexico. It has a light brown or tan coloring with dark blotches along its back. They are heavy-bodied snakes with heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils.

Mojave rattlesnakes are most known for their aggressiveness and for being one of the most venomous snakes in North America.

The Massasauga Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is found all through North America. It is also found in the south-central United States and Northern Mexico. The massasauga is a small pit-viper rattlesnake that only grows to be about 2-3 feet long. They have a gray or light brown coloring with dark black markings.

Massasauga rattlesnakes have a pit on each side of their head which helps them sense heat. They often don't rely on their rattle to warn predators and people away and will instead vibrate their tails when threatened.

The Pygmy Rattlesnake

This rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is found in the southeastern United States. It is the smallest, but a thick, rattlesnake in North America and only grows to be about 18-24 inches long. Their body color can be light or dark gray. They have a black nose and small rattles on the end of their tail.

Pygmy rattlesnakes are divided into three subspecies, and they are all found in the southeastern United States. These rattlesnakes mostly lived in pine forests and near water. They are poisonous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent as they don't produce much.

The Prairie Rattlesnake

The prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) is the most common rattlesnake in North America and can be found in almost every state. They are light brown or gray with a series of dark, zigzag stripes running down their back. Their greyish-white belly has a series of black spots.

Prairie rattlesnakes are the largest of the rattlesnake species in North America and can grow to be up to 4 feet long. They have a wide head with deep pits on either side, which help them sense prey or danger.

Mexican West Coast Rattlesnake

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes (Crotalus Basiliscus) are found in the Baja California Peninsula and the state of Sonora. They are often found near grasslands. They have a black or dark brown coloring with light bands down their back. They are one of the largest rattlesnakes in the world, reaching up to 5 feet in length.

Mexican west coast rattlesnakes are not as aggressive as some of the other rattlesnake species and will often try to avoid a confrontation. They are venomous snakes, but their venom is not considered very potent.

The Horned Rattlesnake

Horned rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerastes) are known for their horns, which are actually just small scales that project from the back of their head, and help gives protection to their eyes. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found in the southwestern United States and in Northern Mexico.

Horned rattlesnakes are small-sized pit-viper rattlesnakes. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. They are also known for their sidewinding motion, which helps them move easily through sand and loose soil.

Santa Catalina Rattlesnake

The Santa Catalina rattlesnake (Crotalus catalinensis), also called the black-tailed rattlesnake, is found on Santa Catalina Island off the coast of southern California. They are unique rattlesnakes as they cannot produce the "rattle" sound that the other rattlesnakes make. These rattlesnakes are on the endangered species list due to habitat loss.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnake

The Southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus helleri) is found in the western United States. They are light brown or gray with dark bands down their back. They can be found near water and in rocky areas.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes are large snakes, reaching up to 6 feet long. They are one of the most venomous snakes in North America. Their toxin attacks nerve endings and contains myotoxins and hemotoxins that can cause serious organ and tissue damage.

Conclusion

Rattlesnakes have always inspired fear in people, but they are fascinating creatures. And though rattlesnake bites can be deadly, they are not as common as one would think.

Learning more about these types of rattlesnakes will help people be more aware and understand these snakes better. So instead of feeling scared or threatened, we can appreciate these creatures for the unique and amazing animals that they are.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rattlesnakes

What is the most common rattlesnake?

The most common species of snake in North America are the timber rattlesnake and prairie rattlesnake. All three of these snakes have ranges that cover much of the continent. These rattlesnakes are so-called pit vipers. They have a heat-sensing pit on each side of their head between the eye and the nostril.

How many species of rattlesnakes are there in the US?

There are 32 species of rattlesnakes and 83 subspecies that fall into two genera. Rattlesnakes can be found in North America, Central America, South America, and some islands in the Caribbean. They are a part of the pit viper family which also includes copperheads and water moccasins.

What is the biggest rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest type of rattlesnake. It can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to fifteen pounds. This snake is found in the southeastern United States, and it is considered to be the most dangerous snake in North America.

What is the most venomous rattlesnake?

The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest and most venomous snake in North America. The snake has a black body with a series of white diamond-shaped markings down its back. It gets its name from the small, diamond-shaped scales on the back of its head.

What state has the most rattlesnakes?

Rattlesnakes are found in almost every part of the United States, but they're especially common in the Southwest. States like Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico have the highest populations of rattlesnakes.

Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

Locally Published on: https://san-diego.aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/snakes/different-types-of-rattlesnakes/

[ansiklomedia]

Halı Engerekleri Nasıl Canlılardır?

Halı Engerekleri Nasıl Canlılardır?

Yaygın Adı:Halı engerekleri (testere pullu engerekler) Bilimsel Adı: Echis sp. Alt familya: Viperinae Familya: Viperidae (engerekgiller) Alt takım: Serpentes (yılanlar) Takım: Squamata (pullu sürüngenler) Boyutları: 50 cm den 91 cm’ye kadar Fiziksel Özellikleri: Kafaları yuvarlak ya da armut şeklindedir, çok sayıda küçük karina dişli plakalarla kaplıdır; dikey göz bebekli, yukarıdan görülebilen,…

[exotic-venom]

(Atheris nitschei rungweensis)  Rungwe tree viper, Rungwe bush viper, green-&-yellow bush viper

Description: Medium-sized arboreal adder, adults usually 40-70 cm long (max. 73+ cm). Body usually light to bright green above, w/ irregular black patterns (maybe zig-zags) due to black-tipped, keeled dorsal scales (w/ 23-33 midbody rows). Belly lighter, usually greenish-yellow, young usually solid brownish w/ bright yellow tail tip. 

Habitat: Found mainly 2-4 m above ground in reeds, grass & bamboo of upland papyrus & phragmites swamps, riverine elephant grass, bamboo, & montane forest up to 2,800 m elevation. May also occur in suitable habitats in northwestern Mozambique, but no specimens confirmed from there, so far.

Activity and Behavior: Mainly nocturnal (but often basks in sun) & mainly arboreal (but often hunts on the ground at night). Less excitable than many other bush vipers, but can be aggressive when disturbed. Prey mainly on available frogs, less often on small mammals, &/or lizards. Ovoviviparous, w/ probably 5-13 young/ litter. Young may practice "caudal luring" of prey. 

Venom Characteristics: Not much studied, but probably mainly hemotoxic. Bites of humans rare, no serious human envenomations or fatalities reported, so far. Not considered lethal to humans, but no specific antivenom currently produced.

[exotic-venom]

(Bitis cornuta) many horned adder

Venom primarily cytotoxic. Bites may cause pain, local swelling, & local necrosis. Few known bites of humans; no human fatalities recorded.

[exotic-venom]

(Acanthophis hawkei)  Hawke's death adder, Cumming's death adder, Lancaster's death adder

Found in Queensland and Northern Territory in Australia.

[exotic-venom]

(Bitis gabonica gabonica) Gaboon viper

Longest fangs of any snake species in the world, often 40 mm long (max. 55 mm), which enable it to inject massive amounts of potent cytotoxic venom deep into a victim. Venom also contains cardiotoxins that possess neurotoxic properties which may be more dangerous than the cytotoxins. 

Widely distributed in central, eastern & southern Africa; w/ a subspecies noted for its long nasal horn restricted to western Africa.

[exotic-venom]

 (Cerastes vipera) dwarf Sahara sand viper

Habitat: Mainly found in sand dunes, loose sand, & desert shrub from sea level up to about 300 m elevation. Limited to northern Africa & parts of the Middle East.

Activity and Behavior: Terrestrial, oviparous, mainly nocturnal; usually spends day buried in sand at base of scrub. Not usually aggressive. When provoked, gathers body into coil & rubs its sides together to produce a rasping or "hissing" noise. 

Venom Characteristics: Venom contains mainly mild cytotoxic & neurotoxic components. Bites reportedly painful, but usually not serious.

[exotic-venom]

(Bitis nasicornis) rhinoceros viper

Large, stout, w/ a narrow flat triangular head w/ small keeled scales. Adults average 60-90 cm long (max. 150 cm), 31-43 midbody scale rows. Background color varies; patterned w/ various geometric shapes in pale blue, red, lemon yellow, green, purple, white, & jet black. Head blue or green w/ distinctive black arrow mark, belly dirty-white to dull green w/ lots of black & grey blotches.

Highly cytotoxic  Usually is reluctant to strike.

[exotic-venom]

(Cerastes cerastes)  desert horned viper

Habitat: Found mainly in deserts where there are rock outcroppings & fine sand, often in very arid places; however, may be found near oases. Limited mainly to northern Africa & the Middle East. 

Activity and Behavior: Mainly nocturnal & terrestrial (semi-fossorial). Can make itself almost invisible by wriggling down into loose sand. Often hides in rodent holes & under stones. When irritated, rubs inflated loops of body together to make a "rasping hiss." Can strike quickly if disturbed. 

Venom Characteristics: Venom primarily hemotoxic. Local symptoms include edema, redness, internal hemorrhage, & areas of gangrene. Venom has coagulant activities at low concentrations, anticoagulant activities at high concentrations. Fatalities rare but have been documented.