Range:

Western Colorado, eastern Utah, and southwestern Wyoming.

Habitat:

Rocky, arid areas to 8,000 feet.

Characteristics:

Light yellowish, often without distinct blotches. Toxic venom, but small amount. Lifespan is 10 to 20 years depending on size and species

Behavior:

Mild-tempered, doesn't bite unless provoked.

Reproduction:

Six to twelve young are born on average, from August to October.

Interesting Facts:

Rattlers shed their skin 3 or 4 times per year on average, so it is unusual to see more than 12 rattles. The ‘pit’ is a temperature-sensitive structure on the side of their head used to locate warm-blooded prey. Rattlers can climb trees. It is not uncommon to find one 4 – 5 feet off the ground in mesquite, manzanita or other shrubs. They are also good swimmers. The fangs can be folded back inside a skin fold to protect them when their mouth is closed. The rattlesnake is the only venomous snake in Utah. There are four species and three subspecies (western rattlenake) in the state.

Be Rattlesnake Aware! Download this .pdf: Rattlesnake Awareness Brochure