Common name : Texas diamond-back
Scientific name : Crotalus atrox
Family : Viperidae
Native to : United States and Mexico
Interesting fact : The pit behind its nostril detects heat and can tell a predator and prey apart.
Conservation status : Least Concern
These venomous snakes lack the pigment melanine and appear light in colour. As a result, they are poorly camouflaged and are easily preyed upon. Beautiful diamond patterns adorn their backs. The tail’s keratin segments make the typical rattle sound when it is moved back and forth 60 times/sec. Young ones are born after 6 to 7 months of gestation.
