A New Mexico Ridgenosed Rattlesnake (Crotalus willardi obscurus). This federally protected rattlesnake ranges into Arizona, but only a dwindling population remains.
New Mexico Ridgenosed Rattlesnake
Tag: New Mexico
Defensive Prairie Rattlesnake
A very cleanly patterned Prairie Rattlesnake found in the New Mexico bootheel over the summer. These snakes, when caught out in the open, can be dramatically defensive. Coiling, moving sideways, and striking repeatedly. They also often opt not to rattle but curl the tail into a half-looped display, which is typical for the species throughout their range.
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake Crossing The Road
A thin Western Diamondback Rattlesnake stopped for a moment while crossing a dirt road. Often, this behavior is misinterpreted as “sunning”. While snakes may stop to bask like this, in many cases, it’s just that the snake saw the observer first and stopped moving in hopes the perceived predator will not notice it. They don’t know what roads and trails are, however, so imagine it from their perspective: moving along, headed home after a long night of ambush hunting … a monster appears in the distance and comes directly to you! It’s no wonder they then become defensive. But as always, the easy way to remain safe is just not to bother it.
New Mexico Ridgenosed Rattlesnake
An adult New Mexico Ridgenosed Rattlesnake from a few years back. Within the United States, climate change is quickly transforming its remaining habitat into hot, dry desert mountains under constant threat of fire.
Blacktailed Rattlesnake In New Mexico
A Blacktailed Rattlesnake resting on a log at the base of a massive rock outcrop in the New Mexico bootheel. This was found late in the season, and the snake likely spends the winter in a crevice up above alongside several others.
Madrean Mountain Kingsnake
A Madrean Mountain Kingsnake we found in New Mexico in 2022 showing a higher degree of black in the bands than is typical.
