Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake Introduction
Crotalus adamanteus, commonly known as the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, among other names, is a venomous pit viper belonging to the family Viperidae. This specific species of rattlesnake is endemic to southeastern United States. It is the heaviest, though not longest, venomous snake in America and is also the largest rattlesnake and can grow up to 2.4 meters (8 feet) in length and can weigh up to 4.5 kg (10 pounds).
The rattle of the Eastern Diamondback is well developed and can be heard from relatively far away. When threatened, it raises the anterior half of the body off the ground in an S-shaped coil and can strike to a distance of at least a third of its body length. Many will stand their ground and may strike repeatedly, but if given the opportunity, they will usually retreat while facing the intruder and moving backwards towards shelter, after which they disappear.
Keywords to learn
Endemic = Native restricted to a certain place
Feverishly = In a frenetically excited or energetic manner
About Me
Hey Kids, my name is Ella the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake and I am very happy to meet you. Learn more about me and my species @ www.kids.nationalgeographic.com
Key Data
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Order:Squamata.
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Lifespan:15-20 years.
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Class:Reptilia.
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Scientific Name:Crotalus adamanteus.
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Mass:4.5kg (10 pounds).
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Length:2.4(8 feet).
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Region found:Southeastern United States.
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Population Status:Least concern.
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Current population trend:Decreasing.
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Diet:Carnivorous.
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Sexual maturity:Males. 2.5-3.5 years. Females. 2-4 years.
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is a large venomous replete, that can be very dangerous to us if exposed to venom if bitten. Now that you know more about the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake by learning the key data above, be sure also to check out the fun facts on the Eastern Diamond Rattlesnake below. When you are finished learning the facts, try answering the questions in the Q&A corner on the bottom right side of the page.
Download questions about the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake here: Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (answers are on this page)
Teachers. For more in depth work sheets on the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake. Click on Kidskonnect Worksheets
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake Fun Facts for Kids
- # 1. The eastern diamondback rattlesnakes are natural exterminators preying on household pests such as rats and mice, as well as squirrels and birds.
- # 2. Feared as deadly and aggressive, diamondbacks are highly averse to human contact and only attack in defense. Most bites occur when humans taunt or try to capture or kill a rattlesnake. They can accurately strike at up to one-third their body length.
- # 3. Diamondback venom is a potent hemotoxin that kills red blood cells and causes tissue damage. Bites are extremely painful and can be fatal to humans.
- # 4. The eastern diamondback is not endangered, but because of indiscriminate killing, widespread loss of habitat, and hunting, its numbers are decreasing throughout its range.
- # 5. When cornered, rattlers feverishly shake their iconic tails as a last warning to back off. Rattles are made of loosely attached, hard, hollow segments.
Q&A Corner
# 1. What is the scientific name for the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake?
#2. What is the average lifespan of the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake?
# 3. What does the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes eat?
# 4. When do most bites from the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake occur?
# 5. What venom is found in the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnakes bite? What does it do to people?
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