Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Quick Identification

• Brown/tan/gold background color
• Row of dark diamonds outlined in light scales

This is our largest rattlesnake. The average length is 4 to 5 1/2 feet; recorded to nearly 8 feet. This snake is massive in build and the head is very broad. The color is medium brown or tan with dark diamond-shaped markings. Each diamond is bordered by a single row of light-colored scales. General coloration fades to a lighter hue toward the tail. Each side of the head has a wide dark stripe bordered on both sides with lighter scales. There is a prominent rattle on tail.

An encounter with an adult eastern diamondback rattlesnake can be an awesome event. The sheer size and bulk of a large specimen is impressive indeed, and no other Mississippi snake reaches such proportions. When at rest on the surface, eastern diamondbacks usually coil next to a log, uprooted tree stump, or in the close proximity of a gopher tortoise burrow. Here the snake blends well with grasses and low shrubs, and can be extremely difficult to see. From here they usually choose to lie still and quiet rather than draw attention to themselves. Under other circumstances or if outwardly challenged, an eastern diamondback may rattle and blow loudly, and subsequently bite if approached to within striking range.

Eastern diamondbacks were once common in the longleaf pine forests of southern Mississippi. Habitat destruction, human persecution, and road mortalities have eliminated diamondbacks from most of the historic range in Mississippi.

Adult eastern diamondback rattlesnakes feed almost exclusively on large rodents and rabbits. Rarely, ground-dwelling birds such as quail are taken. Babies are born in September and at 14 inches long can kill and swallow adult mice.

Many experts believe that this large rattlesnake is in serious need of protection. An encounter can certainly be a memorable experience so for your own safety and concern for a diminishing species, back off and give the eastern diamondback a wide berth.