Prairie Rattlesnake

A young Prairie Rattlesnake

Prairie Rattlesnake-Crotalus Viridis

Also known as the Wester Rattlesnake they can be in central to eastern New Mexico, the High Plains, and into the central U.S., Prairie Rattlesnakes inhabit grasslands, prairies, and rocky outcrops. They are highly adaptable and are often more tolerant of human presence than other rattlesnake species. Though they may coil and rattle when threatened, they typically prefer to flee and are considered moderately defensive when cornered. They’re most active at dawn, dusk, and cooler parts of the day. They have beautiful contrasting spots down their backs that are highlighted by light scales around the edges.