Reptiles
Speckled Rattlesnake
Crotalus mitchellii · also called speckled rattlesnakes
Coiled against rock that matches its own speckled pattern almost perfectly, a speckled rattlesnake can be nearly invisible until it moves, its colouring shifting from pale gray to pink or reddish depending on the exact terrain of its local range.
Overview
The speckled rattlesnake, Crotalus mitchellii, is a Least Concern pit viper native to rocky desert and mountain habitat across the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. Its remarkable region-by-region colour variation, heat-sensing hunting ability, and warning rattle make it one of the more visually adaptable rattlesnake species found in North America.
Wearing the colour of home
Few rattlesnakes show as much regional colour variation as the speckled rattlesnake, with different populations closely matching the specific shade of rock and soil found in their own local patch of desert or mountain habitat.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread across suitable rocky desert and mountain habitat throughout its range.
Speckled Rattlesnake: common questions
Why does the speckled rattlesnake's colour vary so much?
Populations across its range have evolved colouring that closely matches the specific rock and soil colour of their local habitat, ranging from pale gray to pink, reddish, or tan depending on the surrounding terrain, an adaptation that helps it blend into whatever ground it rests on.
How does the speckled rattlesnake hunt?
It is a carnivore that uses a heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril to detect warm-blooded prey such as small mammals and birds, striking with venomous fangs once prey comes within range.
Why does the speckled rattlesnake rattle its tail?
It vibrates keratin segments at the tip of its tail to produce a warning rattle, alerting potential threats to its presence and venomous bite before resorting to striking.
Where is the speckled rattlesnake found?
It is native to rocky desert and mountain habitat across the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico.