The largest rattlesnake in the world, a heavy-bodied pit viper of the longleaf pine ecosystems of the American Southeast.
Description
The eastern diamondback is a thickset pit viper averaging about 1.5 m but occasionally exceeding 2 m. It bears bold dark brown diamond markings outlined in cream on an olive or grey background, plus a striking dark eyestripe bordered by white above and below.
Behavior
A patient ambush predator, the diamondback coils beside game trails and burrows, often using gopher tortoise dens for shelter. It rattles loudly when alarmed and delivers a deep strike with long fangs. Bites are medical emergencies due to volume and toxicity of venom.
Range
Restricted to the southeastern coastal plain of the United States, from southeastern North Carolina south through Florida and west to coastal Louisiana. The species has declined steeply due to habitat loss and rattlesnake roundups.
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Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake starts with E . Browse other snakes along the same letter.
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