Tiger Rattlesnake
Crotalus tigris
A small desert rattlesnake with numerous fine crossbands and a proportionally small head but disproportionately potent venom.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Southern Arizona, USA and Sonora, Mexico
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Overview
The Tiger Rattlesnake is a small-bodied pit viper restricted to the Sonoran Desert region of southern Arizona and adjacent Sonora, Mexico. Despite its modest size and small head, it possesses venom considered among the most toxic of any rattlesnake species.
Its numerous narrow crossbands give it a tiger-like striped appearance, distinguishing it from other regional rattlesnakes.
How to identify it
- Gray, lavender, or pinkish background with numerous narrow, dark crossbands giving a tiger-striped look
- Disproportionately small head relative to body compared to other rattlesnakes
- Heat-sensing pit between eye and nostril
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Small rattle relative to body size
- Distinguished from other Sonoran Desert rattlesnakes by its numerous fine crossbands and small head
Habitat & range
Inhabits rocky desert foothills, canyons, and bajadas in the Sonoran Desert of southern Arizona and Sonora, Mexico, often among rocky outcrops and desert scrub.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, especially in warm months. Feeds mainly on lizards, with occasional small mammals. Viviparous, giving birth to live young. Generally shy and reluctant to strike, though its venom is notably potent despite the species' small size.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tiger Rattlesnake's venom dangerous despite its small size?
Yes, its venom is considered highly potent among rattlesnakes, though its small fang size limits venom delivery.
How can I identify it?
Look for numerous narrow crossbands on a gray to lavender body and a notably small head.
Where does it live?
It is restricted to the Sonoran Desert region of southern Arizona and Sonora, Mexico.
What does it eat?
It feeds primarily on lizards, occasionally taking small mammals.
Tiger Rattlesnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Tiger Rattlesnake.
