Range: Deserts of the S.W. United States
Habitat: Terrestrial animal found in varied dry habitats
Natural Diet: Small mammals
Diet at Rain Forest: Pre-killed rodents
Size: 3-5 feet, very heavy bodied
Rain Forest Facts: An aggressive and defensive snake, the Western Diamondback is the species that accounts for the majority of bites to humans in the United States. A powerful hemotoxic venom is delivered in large quantities to prey items, death is rapid in even the largest of food items such as a rabbit.
The Diamondback is being hunted both out of fear and for the skin which is used for leather products. Sadly, such horrific events as Rattlesnake Roundups are still going on today. In spite of the danger of a bite this animal is an exceptionally important component of the ecosystem. Many species of snakes are captured and destroyed during the "roundups" not just the diamondbacks.
Native American history concerning this venomous snake dates back centuries. Revered, feared, and even worshipped, this snake played an important role in the daily lives of western tribes.
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