Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Scientific Name
Crotalus adamanteus
Also Known As
Eastern Diamond-backed Rattlesnake
Range
All of Florida
Diet
Small Mammals, Birds, Snakes, Insects
Life Expectancy
10 Years
The eastern diamondback rattlesnake

Photo 63666236 (c) Ty Sharrow, CC BY-NC

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake conservation status - Vulnerable

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This Snake is Venomous

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes in Central Florida

The eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) is a venomous pit viper species found throughout the southeastern United States, including the central Florida region. This impressive snake is the largest rattlesnake in the world, capable of reaching over 8 feet (2.4 m) in length.

Eastern diamondbacks thrive in the warm, humid environment of central Florida and can be encountered in sandy pinewoods, scrub, palmetto flatwoods and swamps. Read on to learn identification tips, biology, behavior, diet, health risks, and prevention methods for eastern diamondback rattlesnakes in central Florida.

Appearance and Identification

The eastern diamondback rattlesnake can be identified by the following characteristics

Adult eastern diamondback rattlesnake

Photo 176005249 © Matt Cohen and Elizabeth Hargrave, CC BY-NC

Adult Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

  • Size: Adults can reach over 8 feet (2.4 m) long and weigh up to 15 pounds (6.8 kg). The average is 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 m).
  • Color: Base color ranges from yellowish, tan, brown to almost black. Pronounced dark brown or black diamonds run the length of the back outlined with lighter coloring.
  • Head: Triangular head distinct from the neck with horns or supraocular scales above the eyes. Heat-sensing facial pits present.
  • Rattle: Loud, buzzing rattle made of interlocked hollow segments at the end of the tail. Adds 1-2 new segments when shed each time.