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What is a Mojave Rattlesnake?

Terrie Brockmann
Terrie Brockmann

Many experts believe the Mojave, or Mohave, rattlesnake to be the most venomous snake in North America. Besides living in the Mojave Desert, from which it gets its name, the rattlesnake is found primarily in regions of extreme western Texas, southern Nevada, and south to central Mexico. Herpetologists generally classify it as a medium-sized rattlesnake because it is between two and three feet (about 61 to 91 cm) long. Scientifically, it is known as Crotalus scutulatus, but people often mistake it for the western diamondback, or Crotalus atrox, because both have the diamond markings on their backs. Some people mistakenly call the snake the Mojave green.

On the back of the Mojave rattlesnake are well-defined diamonds edged with a lighter color. The diamonds on the rattlesnake fade away on the last third of the snake's body, whereas the western diamondback's diamonds continue all the way to the tail. At the tail, the Mojave rattlesnake's rings contrast light and dark with the lighter rings being larger; the diamondback has larger, thick black rings and thin light ones. The Mojave rattlesnakes usually are brown or yellowish brown in lower elevations and greenish gray or olive green in the high regions. The snake also has a postocular stripe that extends down to just above the mouth; the diamondback's stripe intersects at the corner of its mouth.

Mojave rattlesnakes live in harsh desert areas.
Mojave rattlesnakes live in harsh desert areas.

Adult California ground squirrels are immune to their toxin, but the Mojave rattlesnakes eat young squirrels, lizards, and other rodents, including the Kangaroo rat. Mojave rattlesnakes are nocturnal hunters, although they often hunt on cooler, overcast days. During the day, they hide in crevices or rodent burrows. During July to September, the Mojave rattlesnake gives live birth to between four and 20 young that typically measure about nine to 11 inches (23 to 28 cm) long. The young snakes are more dangerous because they have not grown a rattle to warn people away and they usually inject more venom.

Diamonds continue all the way to the tail on a western diamondback rattlesnake.
Diamonds continue all the way to the tail on a western diamondback rattlesnake.

Another snake that the Mojave rattlesnake resembles is the Mojave sidewinder rattlesnake, which also inhabits the Mojave Desert. The sidewinder has a horn-like scale over each eye and moves in the distinctive sidewinding movement. The sidewinder also buries itself in the sand with only its head above ground to hunt prey. The Mojave rattlesnake does not exhibit either of these behaviors. Other characteristics that can help to identify it as a viper are its large, triangular head and long, movable fangs.

Although highly venomous, a bite from a Mojave rattlesnake may not be as painful as bites from other snakes.
Although highly venomous, a bite from a Mojave rattlesnake may not be as painful as bites from other snakes.

The Mojave rattlesnake's toxin — called the Mojave toxin — attacks the victim's nervous system with a neurotoxin and the blood system with a hemotoxin. Some experts say that this rattlesnake's venom is 16 times as strong as the Mojave sidewinder rattlesnake. The snake controls the amount of venom it excretes. The bite might be deceptive as it often is not as painful as other snakebites. Experts advise against handling dead snakes because of a reflexive reaction that can cause the snake to bite and inject venom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the Mojave Rattlesnake compared to other rattlesnakes?

The Mojave Rattlesnake, known scientifically as Crotalus scutulatus, is particularly notorious for its potent venom, which contains both neurotoxic and hemotoxic components. This dual-action venom is more complex and often more dangerous than that of other rattlesnake species, making the Mojave one of the most venomous snakes in North America.

Where can you typically find Mojave Rattlesnakes in the wild?

Mojave Rattlesnakes are primarily found in the desert regions of the southwestern United States and central Mexico. Their habitat ranges from the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts to grasslands and lower mountain slopes, where they thrive in arid conditions with sparse vegetation.

How can you identify a Mojave Rattlesnake?

A Mojave Rattlesnake can be identified by its distinctive diamond-shaped pattern along the back and the alternating black and white bands on the tail, known as "coon tail" markings. They also have a relatively triangular head, pit sensors between their eyes and nostrils, and the characteristic rattle at the end of their tail.

What should you do if you encounter a Mojave Rattlesnake in the wild?

If you encounter a Mojave Rattlesnake, it is crucial to remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Slowly back away from the snake, giving it plenty of space to retreat. Do not attempt to touch or move the snake. Alert others to its presence and consider notifying park rangers if in a protected area.

How does the Mojave Rattlesnake's venom affect humans?

The venom of a Mojave Rattlesnake can cause severe symptoms in humans, including difficulty breathing, blurred vision, and paralysis due to its neurotoxic properties. Hemotoxic effects may include bleeding and tissue damage. Immediate medical attention is essential, as antivenom is often required to counteract the venom's effects.

What conservation status does the Mojave Rattlesnake hold?

As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, the Mojave Rattlesnake is not listed as endangered and does not have a special conservation status. It is considered to be of 'Least Concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating a stable population in its natural habitat.

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    • Mojave rattlesnakes live in harsh desert areas.
      By: george kuna
      Mojave rattlesnakes live in harsh desert areas.
    • Diamonds continue all the way to the tail on a western diamondback rattlesnake.
      Diamonds continue all the way to the tail on a western diamondback rattlesnake.
    • Although highly venomous, a bite from a Mojave rattlesnake may not be as painful as bites from other snakes.
      By: Remus Moise
      Although highly venomous, a bite from a Mojave rattlesnake may not be as painful as bites from other snakes.