Harry Potter is over, and now Slytherin is over -- well at least for now. The last part of Slytherin will be the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, which is the most common of the Rattlesnakes in Southern Arizona. I have seen the Black Rattlesnake several times, but never with camera in hand.
Typically seen Western Diamondbacks grow to about 4 feet. Rarely seen are those of 5 feet or more (which can weigh up to 15 pounds). It's range is from California to Arkansas and south into Mexico. Its life expectancy is about 20 years -- excluding those prematurely killed by humans. They hibernate during the winter months so are typically seen from early April through October.
As adults their diet consists mainly of rabbits, prairie dogs, squirrels, rats, mice, voles etc. Younger ones prey more on lizards and small birds.
From a practical point of view, Tucson gets 5-10 rattlesnake bites per year. Mostly men, and often provoking the snake intentionally. Rattlesnake bites are extremely painful and sometimes (10 to 20%) fatal. Treatment of severe bites can take up to six months at a cost of $50,000 or more. As a general rule however, rattlesnakes aren't interested in biting humans since it depletes their venom and makes paralyzing prey more difficult until the venom is restored. We see two to four rattlesnakes on our property each year, although they probably live on the property year round.
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| Western Diamondback Rattlesnake serpentined |
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| Western Diamondback Rattlesnake coiled |
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| Western Diamondback Rattlesnake rattle |
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