Arizona’s diverse landscapes are home to several types of rattlesnakes. These venomous snakes are known for their unique rattling sound, which serves as a warning. Understanding these reptiles provides insight into Arizona’s rich biodiversity and the importance of respecting wildlife.
Arizona’s Diverse Rattlesnake Species
Arizona is home to a variety of rattlesnake species, each adapted to specific environments. Their appearance, behavior, and preferred habitats help distinguish one species from another.
The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) is common throughout Arizona, found from deserts to grasslands. These snakes have heavy bodies and large, triangular heads, with colors ranging from brown to pale green. A distinct dark diamond pattern runs along their backs, and their tails feature prominent black and white bands just before the rattle. They are primarily nocturnal but can be active during cooler parts of the day.
The Mojave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus), often called the “Mojave green” due to a greenish tinge, inhabits the Mojave and northern Colorado deserts, preferring flats with sparse vegetation. This species averages two to four feet in length and has a broad, triangular head with enlarged scales on top. Their tail typically has narrower black bands compared to the white ones.
Sidewinders (Crotalus cerastes) are named for their distinctive sideways locomotion across loose sand. These smaller rattlesnakes, usually 1.5 to 3 feet long, are found in sandy flats, dunes, and scrublands. They have horn-like scales above their eyes, which provide protection and aid in camouflage. Sidewinders are primarily nocturnal, burying themselves in sand to escape heat and ambush prey.
The Tiger Rattlesnake (Crotalus tigris) is a medium-sized species with a notably small, spade-shaped head and a proportionally large rattle. Their coloration varies, often appearing gray, lavender, or blue-gray, with distinct crossbands or “tiger” stripes across their bodies. These snakes inhabit rocky desert canyons, foothills, and mountains in central and southeastern Arizona. They are nocturnal during hot summers and become more active during the day in cooler seasons.
The Arizona Black Rattlesnake (Crotalus cerberus) is found in higher elevations and cooler, wetter mountain and forest areas across central Arizona. Young individuals have prominent brown blotches on a light gray background, but adults typically darken to solid black or dark gray-brown, sometimes with faint crossbars. This species exhibits social behavior, sharing communal dens and sometimes cooperatively parenting their young.
Arizona’s state reptile, the Ridge-nosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi), is a small pit viper, typically one to two feet long. Its most distinguishing feature is a ridge of upturned scales along its snout. These reclusive snakes live in high-elevation “sky island” mountain ranges of southeastern Arizona, preferring rocky, well-vegetated canyon bottoms. They are primarily active during the day but may be crepuscular or nocturnal under favorable conditions.
Encountering Rattlesnakes Safely
Coexisting with rattlesnakes in Arizona requires understanding how to safely encounter them. Taking preventative measures reduces the likelihood of an encounter and is key to staying safe.
When hiking or spending time outdoors, wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and long pants. Always watch where you step and where you place your hands, especially when climbing over rocks or reaching into dense vegetation. Keeping yards clear of debris, woodpiles, and overgrown bushes eliminates potential hiding spots for snakes near homes.
If a rattlesnake is encountered, maintaining a safe distance is important. Most rattlesnakes prefer to avoid confrontation and will often retreat if given space. Avoid provoking or attempting to handle the snake, even if it appears docile or injured. Slowly back away from the snake, giving it ample room to move off on its own.
Pets should be kept on a leash in rattlesnake habitats to prevent them from investigating or disturbing snakes. Training pets to avoid snakes can also be a valuable safety measure. Prompt veterinary attention is necessary if a pet is bitten.
Understanding Rattlesnake Bites
Despite precautions, rattlesnake bites can occur. Knowing the appropriate response and seeking immediate medical attention is important to mitigate serious complications.
If bitten, remain calm and immediately call 911 or emergency services. Remove any constricting items from the bitten limb, such as rings, watches, or tight clothing, as swelling will occur. Keep the bitten limb still and, if possible, position it at or below heart level to slow the spread of venom.
There are several actions to avoid after a rattlesnake bite, as they can cause more harm than good. Do not attempt to cut the bite wound or try to suck out the venom. Applying ice, using a tourniquet, or consuming alcohol or caffeine are also not recommended. Medical treatment should not be delayed for identification purposes. All rattlesnake bites require professional medical evaluation due to potential serious health complications.