Fauna
Reptile · GBIF taxon 2444393

Red Diamond Rattlesnake

Crotalus ruber

Also known as Red Rattlesnake, Red Diamond Pit Viper

Red diamond rattlesnakes inhabit arid coastal sage scrub, desert slopes, and chaparral across southern California and Baja California. Recognized by their reddish-brown brick hues and diamond patterns bordered by pale scales, these mild-mannered pit vipers rely on camouflage and heat-sensing pits to ambush nocturnal rodents. Females produce live young in late summer, giving birth to litters that immediately disperse across the rocky terrain.

VenomousReptileDesert
Red Diamond Rattlesnake reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) MarvalPhotography19, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • California Ground Squirrel
  • Desert Cottontail
  • Merriam's Kangaroo Rat
Predators
  • Red-tailed Hawk
  • California Kingsnake
  • Coyote
ThreatsUrbanization, habitat loss, road mortality, deliberate killing
HabitatsChaparral, coastal sage scrub, desert slopes, rocky hillsides
Life span15–20 years
Classification
  1. FamilyViperidae
  2. GenusCrotalus
  3. SpeciesCrotalus ruber
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskVery high
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is very high
Delivers a potent venomous bite; maintain a distance of at least two meters and never handle.
Why it is dangerous
Injects cytotoxic and hemorrhagic venom through hinged fangs, causing severe swelling, pain, and tissue damage.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Distinguished by brick-red to tan coloration, diamond markings with pale borders, and black-and-white tail bands.
What to do
Stop movement immediately upon sighting, locate the snake visually, and step back several meters.
What to notice
Recognizable by brick-red scales, a heavy body, and a prominent rattle at the tip of the tail.
Support conservation
Remain on marked trails, leave rocks and downed wood in place, and never harass or attempt to relocate snakes.
Responsible observation
  • Watch Your Step: Scan rocky outcrops, brush edges, and fallen logs before placing hands or feet.
  • Keep Distance: Back away slowly if you hear a rattle or spot a snake coiled nearby.
  • Pet Safety: Keep dogs on a short leash when hiking through southern California scrublands.
Related species
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