Black-tailed Rattlesnake
Crotalus molossus
A calm-tempered rattlesnake of the southwestern deserts and mountains, easily identified by its solid black tail.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.3 m (3-4.3 ft)
- Range
- Southwestern United States and Mexico
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Overview
The Black-tailed Rattlesnake is a medium to large pit viper found across rocky and desert habitats of the southwestern United States and much of Mexico. It is named for its uniformly dark tail, which contrasts with its lighter, patterned body.
It is often regarded as one of the more docile rattlesnake species, frequently choosing to remain still or retreat rather than rattle or strike when encountered.
How to identify it
- Background color ranges from olive-yellow to gray or greenish, with dark diamond or blotch patterns down the back
- Tail solid black or very dark, giving the species its common name
- Broad, triangular head distinct from the neck
- Heat-sensing pit between eye and nostril
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Distinguished from other rattlesnakes by the uniformly dark, unbanded tail
Habitat & range
Occupies rocky hillsides, canyons, desert grasslands, and pine-oak woodlands from the southwestern United States through much of Mexico, often at higher elevations than many other rattlesnake species.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Active during the day in cooler seasons and more nocturnal in hot summer months. Feeds on small mammals, birds, and lizards using ambush hunting. Viviparous, bearing live young. Known for a generally calm disposition, often preferring to remain motionless rather than rattle when threatened.
Frequently asked questions
How can I identify the Black-tailed Rattlesnake?
Look for its uniformly dark or black tail contrasting with a lighter, blotched body.
Is it aggressive?
It is generally considered calm-tempered, often remaining still rather than rattling or striking when encountered.
Where does it live?
It ranges across rocky and desert habitats of the southwestern United States and much of Mexico.
What elevations does it occupy?
It is often found at higher elevations, including pine-oak woodlands, compared to many other rattlesnake species.
Black-tailed Rattlesnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Black-tailed Rattlesnake.
