Crotalus cerastes cercobombus
A species of Rattlesnakes Scientific name : Crotalus cerastes cercobombus Genus : Rattlesnakes
Crotalus cerastes cercobombus, A species of Rattlesnakes
Scientific name: Crotalus cerastes cercobombus
Genus: Rattlesnakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Crotalus cerastes cercobombus subsists within arid environments in North America, reaping the benefits of evolved sidewinding movements to traverse overheated sand surfaces for hunting and migration. Its secondary nocturnal lifestyle is an adaptation born out of extreme daytime temperatures, making it adept at detecting prey through thermal sensory systems.
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Crotalus cerastes cercobombus primarily preys on small rodents, chiefly kangaroo rats. It uses its toxic venom to immobilize prey, engaging in opportunistic hunting and occasionally feeding on lizards.
Appearance
Crotalus cerastes cercobombus is a small, slim rattlesnake, with rough, keeled scales covering its body. It exhibits a distinctive sandy brown or beige color, dotted with darker diamond-shaped patterns that serve as camouflage in desert environments. A key feature is its upturned snout adapted to 'sidewinding' locomotion. There are no pronounced differences in appearance due to age or gender.
Behavior
Crotalus cerastes cercobombus is exemplary for its unique 'sidewinding' locomotion, vital in the hot desert environment it inhabits. It is primarily nocturnal to avoid extreme daytime heat, exploiting opportunity to hunt small mammals at night. Known for its solitary nature, it interacts only for reproduction. Crotalus cerastes cercobombus's biting behavior, when threatened, makes it defensive rather than aggressive.
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Rattlesnakes Species
Crotalus cerastes cercobombus