# Western Black-tailed Rattlesnake

*Crotalus molossus*

Unlike many rattlesnakes that shed their rattle segments easily, this species often retains a long, impressive rattle due to its less aggressive lifestyle.

- **Taxonomy:** Animalia › Chordata › Reptilia › Squamata › Viperidae › Crotalus
- **IUCN Red List status:** Least Concern
- **Population trend:** stable
- **Biome:** desert
- **Habitat:** Rocky canyons, talus slopes, desert scrub, and pine-oak woodlands.
- **Diet:** Rodents, woodrats, rabbits, lizards, and occasionally birds.
- **Range:** United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas), Mexico
- **Size:** 75 to 110 cm (30 to 43 inches) in length
- **Lifespan:** 15-20 years
- **Active:** crepuscular
- **Threats:** Habitat loss, vehicular mortality, and human persecution.
- **Safe to approach?:** Venomous and defensive. Maintain a safe distance of at least 15 feet. If encountered, freeze and then back away slowly. Do not attempt to handle or kill the snake. In the event of a bite, remain calm to slow venom spread, immobilize the affected limb at or below heart level, and seek immediate emergency medical care. Do not apply ice, tourniquets, or attempt to suck out the venom.

## About

Crotalus molossus is a venomous pit viper species found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Four subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominate subspecies described here.

## Sources

- Plate: https://gaia-dex.com/species/316e71c5-eb57-48cf-8a3a-a75cefdf96f0
- iNaturalist: https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/515948
- Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crotalus_molossus
- Conservation status: IUCN Red List category, as recorded by Gaia-Dex
- Photo: https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/303554859/medium.jpg (Brandon Bourassa, CC-BY, via iNaturalist)

Habitat, diet, size and similar notes are AI-written summaries; check them against the linked sources before relying on them.