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reptiles

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Crotalus adamanteus

Shine Bright Like a Diamondback

The eastern diamondback is characterized by yellowish diamonds along its back and a dark stripe through its eyes. They serve a very important role in the ecosystem as natural pest control, eating potentially thousands of rodents in their lifetime. The eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the longest venomous snake in North America, and the longest rattlesnake in the world!

About the Species

The rattle of a rattlesnake is made up keratin, the same protein that makes up your fingernails and hair.

Rattlesnakes get their name from the rattle at the end of their tail, which serves as a defense warning. The snake can shake the rattle up to 90 times per second- faster than a hummingbird can flap its wings! The rattle is made up of several keratinous rings. Every time the snake sheds, a new ring is added. Snakes may shed several times every year, so the myth that the number of rings indicates the snake's age is false. Additionally, the brittle rattle may break off. Although eastern diamondbacks are considered common, their populations are decreasing. Habitat loss is a main threat. Additionally, there are no regulations on the killing of rattlesnakes. In fact, some states throughout the southeast still have "Rattlesnake Roundups" where people go out to kill rattlesnakes. Many conservationists, including team members of the Central Florida Zoo, are working to change these roundups into festivals, and help educate people on the importance and value of rattlesnakes.

Words From the Experts

Quotes

The largest rattlesnake species in the world, eastern diamondbacks have the potential to grow to over 8 feet. Their population is in decline due to habitat loss and unnecessary killing by the public.

Andrea

Andrea

Did You Know?

The Central Florida Zoo is also home to albino eastern diamondback rattlesnakes. These snakes do not produce the normal skin pigment; however, you can still see the outlines of diamonds along their back.

Facts

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Origin

southeast U.S. (North Carolina to Florida, west to Mississippi)

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Habitat

Wide range of habitat types

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Size

5–6 feet long | 10 pounds

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Diet

Rodents and other small mammals, lizards, frogs

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Predators

Birds of prey, raccoons, other snakes

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Natural Defenses

Venom, excellent camouflage

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Reproduction

oviviviparous; 6–21 per litter

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Status

Least Concern

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Life Expectancy

10–20 years

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