Rattlesnake
Name: Sidewinder RattlesnakeScientific Name: Crotalus cerastes
Basic Information:
This venomous snake is typically found in the desert regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Smaller than most rattlesnakes, adults typically measure between 50 cm and 80 cm in length. The females are larger than the males, which is unusual for this most rattlesnakes.
As part of the pit viper family, rattlesnakes have a deep pit, or fossa, in the area between the eye and the nostril on either side of the head. These pits are sensitive to infrared radiation, in effect giving the snakes a sixth sense that helps them to find and perhaps even judge the size of the small warm-blooded prey on which they feed. Having one of these organs on either side of the head produces a stereo effect that indicates distance as well as direction. Experiments have shown that, when deprived of their senses of sight and smell, these snakes can strike accurately at moving objects that are less than 0.2 degrees Celsius warmer than the background.
Habitat Information:
Desert - Most people don't realize it, but desert environments still foster large amounts of life and biodiversity. Explore our desert habitat exhibits to truly appreciate the ways in which life has adapted itself for the shortage of moisture and extreme temperatures found in desert environments.
Rattlesnakes at Windaroo:
Living in our reptile house, these rattlesnakes are venomous, but possess a weaker venom than many other rattlesnakes. This, together with the smaller size of their venom glands, makes them less dangerous than their larger cousins. While at Windaroo Zoo, they are handled with the utmost care, allowing us to share them with you.
Related Animals:
Beetle
Camel
Meerkat
Scorpion
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