Eastern
Diamondback Rattlesnake
Reptilia
has acquired three eastern diamondback rattlesnakes ranging in length from
3 feet to 4 1/2 feet. All three animals will be displayed at the new
zoo in an exhibit near our large alligator enclosure. The snake in
the photo to the right is one of two females.
Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes are one of the largest species of rattlesnake. These large ambush predators typically lie in wait for their prey. Capture of prey is assisted by a unique sense found only in pit vipers, boas, and pythons. If you look at the face of a rattlesnake you will clearly see a large "pit" between the eye and nostril. Hence, the name pit viper. The pit is sensitive to heat and assists rattlesnakes by guiding their strike toward their warm prey.