Black Diamondback Snake

Interesting facts about the diamondback rattlesnake.

Black diamondback snake.

The eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake in north america. The western diamondback rattlesnake or texas diamond back crotalus atrox is a venomous rattlesnake species found in the southwestern united states and mexico it is likely responsible for the majority of snakebite fatalities in northern mexico and the greatest number of snakebites in the u s. The diamondback water snake is predominantly brown dark brown or dark olive green in color with a black net like pattern along the back with each spot being vaguely diamond shaped. The eastern species is the heaviest species of venomous snake in north america and is the largest member of crotalus.

Both species measure anywhere between 4 and 8 feet in length but most measure under 7 feet long. Some reach 8 feet in length and weigh up to 10 pounds. Dark vertical bars and lighter coloring are often present down the sides of the snake. It is a venomous snake and has a potent hemotoxin that can cause tissue damage.

These snakes are quite notorious but incredibly misunderstood. No subspecies are currently recognized. The eastern diamondback gets its name from its pattern of yellow bordered light centered black diamonds on its back.