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How to Distinguish the Mojave Rattlesnake From the Western Diamondback

The Mojave rattlesnake and the western diamondback are very similar in appearance and habits, and occupy portions of the Southwest that overlap considerably. Both can be aggressive, especially in the spring as they emerge hungry from their winter hibernation. Both will bite readily if provoked. The bite of each of these rattlers is potentially life-threatening, but their venom differs in its effects and treatment. In order to receive the correct antivenin, it's important to recognize which snake you've encountered.

Instructions

- 1
  Scan the snake from head to tail. If the diamond pattern continues for its full length, the snake is a western diamondback. If the diamonds fade to indistinct bands of color, the snake is a Mojave.
- 2
  Look closely at the bands of black and white scales at the tail end of the snake. If the white bands are notably larger than the black bands, it is a Mojave rattler. If the bands are roughly equal in size, or the black bands are slightly larger, it's a western diamondback.
- 3
  Examine the line of pale-colored scales that run diagonally behind the snake's eyes. If it extends all the way to the mouth, your snake is a western diamondback. If not, it is a Mojave.
- 4
  Check the top of the snake's head, between its eyes. If it has a small number of enlarged scales there, it is a Mojave rattler. If not, it is a western diamondback.

Animals & Science