Prairie rattlesnake
A species of Rattlesnakes, Also known as Great plains rattlesnake, Green prairie rattlesnake Scientific name : Crotalus viridis Genus : Rattlesnakes
Prairie rattlesnake, A species of Rattlesnakes
Also known as:
Great plains rattlesnake, Green prairie rattlesnake
Scientific name: Crotalus viridis
Genus: Rattlesnakes
Content
Description General Info
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Description
Crotalus viridis (Common names: prairie rattlesnake, western rattlesnake, Great Plains rattlesnake, and others) is a venomous pit viper species native to the western United States, southwestern Canada, and northern Mexico. Currently, two subspecies are recognized, including the nominate subspecies described here.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Prairie rattlesnake is predominantly an ambush predator with small mammals, especially rodents and rabbits, forming the bulwark of its diet. Besides rodents, it also consumes other reptiles, birds, and occasionally, insects.
Appearance
Prairie rattlesnake is a large, heavy-bodied rattlesnake with rough, scaly skin. Its coloration varies from light brown to greenish, usually patterned with darker diamonds or hexagons. It boasts a distinctive rattle at the end of a long, tapering tail. Both sexes appear similar, but males are generally larger than females. The snake's size can vary significantly depending on the particular subspecies.
Behavior
Prairie rattlesnake is a solitary and nocturnal species, typically foraging and hunting at twilight or overnight. Notably, this creature employs a sit-and-wait style predation, often camouflaging within its rugged, arid environment. They display a unique rattling sound as a defense mechanism, warning potential predators away from their territory.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Rattlesnakes Species
Prairie rattlesnake 
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