Diamondback Rattler

Diamondback Rattlesnake By Grant K. General Info  Can grow up to 2.5 meters (8ft)  Usually weigh up to 9kg (20lbs)  Gets it’s name from the rattle on its tail  New rings form after shedding skin  Part of the pit viper family  Reptilian ectotherm Habitat Live in hot, dry places Can be found in stone quarries Hide in decaying vegetation for cover Common where mice and rodents are plentiful Characteristics Diamond pattern on its back “Sit and Wait” predator Eat rodents, birds, and lizards Triangular, flat heads Endangerments Loss of habitat is reducing population Hunting of rattlesnakes for skins Eaten by hawks, king snakes, and other rattlers Diet Eats mice, rats, moles, and other rodents. Lizards and other small reptiles, including other snakes. Rarely attack humans Adaptations Long, hollow fangs Fangs fold down from the top of the mouth Heat-pits on the side of the head, allowing them to see in infrared Can strike prey at 750mph Works Cited  “Rattlesnake.” www.ask.com (26 May 2005)  “Rattlesnake.” www.encarta.com (25 May 2005)