Reptile · GBIF taxon 2444432
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
Crotalus adamanteusThe Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is a very large heavy-bodied pit viper patterned with dark diamonds edged in cream. It relies on camouflage in pine flatwoods and palmetto scrub, using heat-sensing pits and venom to capture warm-blooded prey.
venomous pit viperdiamond patternpine-flatwoods predator
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- rabbits
- rats
- squirrels
Predators
- red-tailed hawks
- kingsnakes
- wild pigs
ThreatsHabitat loss, road mortality, deliberate killing, rattlesnake roundups, and loss of refuge burrows
HabitatsLongleaf pine flatwoods, sandhill, palmetto scrub, coastal dunes, marsh edges, and dry woodland
Life spanOften 15 to 20 years, with some individuals living longer
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyViperidae
- SpeciesCrotalus adamanteus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskVery high
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is very high
- A bite can be life-threatening; keep far away and seek emergency care after any suspected bite.
- Why it is dangerous
- Long fangs can deliver a large venom dose causing severe tissue injury, bleeding, shock, or death.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- A massive rattlesnake with cream-bordered dark diamonds, a broad head, facial pits, and a segmented rattle.
- What to do
- Never approach, move, trap, or kill it; back away slowly and seek emergency care after a bite.
- What to notice
- Confirm the heavy body, cream-bordered diamond pattern, dark facial stripe, and segmented tail rattle from afar.
- Support conservation
- Leave the snake undisturbed, keep pets leashed, and share precise records only with trusted biologists.
Responsible observation
- Distance: Remain at least several meters away and provide a clear retreat.
- Footing: Watch ahead around palmetto, fallen logs, and burrow entrances.
- Emergency: After a bite, limit movement and call emergency services immediately.
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