Eastern Diamondback Rattler | Rattlesnake – Facts, Diet, Habitat
The Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake is one of the largest venomous snakes in the world. At 8 feet long, it is certainly the largest in the Americas. Rattlesnakes are part of a family of snakes known as vipers. This is because they have small temperature-sensing holes on the sides of their heads that help them find their prey in the dark.
Where do Diamondback Rattlesnake live?
The Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake is found in the southeastern part of the United States. They live in all kinds of habitats, from jungles to swamps. They prefer to live in burrows dug by mammals such as ground squirrels.
What do Diamondback Rattlesnake look like?
The Eastern Diamondback rattlesnake has a thick body and a wide, triangular head. They have a dark diamond pattern on the back that is accentuated with a lighter yellow. Their tail ends with a rattle in the dark, which they often shake to warn other attackers.
What do Diamondback Rattlesnake eat?
Diamondback rattlesnakes like to eat small mammals such as mice, squirrels, and birds. They will attack their prey and wait for it to die of venom before eating it.
It is Cold-blooded
Since the Eastern Diamondback is a reptile, it is cold-blooded. This means he has to regulate his body temperature with the environment. To do this, rattlesnakes can lie sunbathing on rocks to keep warm or hide deep in rotting tree stumps to cool off.
A group of rattlesnakes are called rumbas. Baby rattles are about a foot long and are born in groups of 7 to 15. They are venomous at birth, but their calls are not yet vocal.
Are the Diamondback Rattlesnake dangerous?
These snakes are very dangerous, aggressive and poisonous. They can strike quickly and are up to 2/3 of their body length. An adult rattlesnake can control the amount of venom it releases, and the effectiveness of the attack can vary. A baby rattlesnake has even stronger venom and may continue to attack to release more venom due to lack of control. Regardless, anyone bitten by an Eastern Diamondback Rattler should seek immediate medical attention.
Interesting Facts about the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
It was the symbol of one of the first flags of the United States known as the Gadsden flag. The flag features a rattlesnake with the famous saying “Don’t step on me”.
Usually, rattlesnakes return to their mother’s burrow every winter. The same cave can be used by future generations for many years.
They are very good swimmers.
They don’t always click before hitting.