The speckled rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii) is one of the most common types of rattlesnakes in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico
The speckled rattlesnake isn’t the only rattlesnake, but it’s certainly one of the most well-known. Native to the United States
Though there are different subspecies of rattlesnakes that have some variations in coloration and size, all have three things in common.
First, you’ll see a distinctive rattle on their tail. They shake it when they feel threatened so you’ll hear a clicking sound.
Second, you’ll notice a facial pit between each eye and nostril—this is where heat-sensing pits help them detect prey.
Third, you’ll see dark bands across their back (or blotches for subspecies) that serve as camouflage from predators.
Their body color varies based on location but is usually brown or gray with lighter coloring speckling their back
As its name suggests, rattlesnakes are found throughout much of North America. They can be found in prairies, deserts, grasslands, forests, swamps
All rattlesnakes are carnivores, meaning they eat only meat. Their primary diet consists of small mammals such as mice and rats but may include birds, lizards, frogs