24/7 Phoenix Snake Removal Hotline

480-237-9975

24/7 Tucson Snake Removal Hotline

520-308-6211

Snake Fencing

480-565-7824

Sidewinder Crotalus cerastes

Sidewinders have a famous name and are extremely common where they are found, yet are quite uncommon to see for most. They live in flat, sandy scrubland desert, and avoid rocky areas and hills. They're very small snakes, reaching an adult size of only around 2 feet. They can be most easily identified by their distinct sideways motion (sidewinding), where the snake throws a loop of its body forward and pulls the rest along rather quickly. They also have two very visible 'horns' above the eyes, which helps the sidewinder live in sandy environments. Although they are small, this snake can give a very bad bite and should never be bothered. Three subspecies are found in Arizona.

  • Dangerously Venomous
  • Commonly encountered
  • Avoid or relocate if found at a home
  • Snake fencing very effective

Subspecies in AZ

Sonoran Sidewinder
Crotalus cerastes cercobombus

Colorado Desert Sidewinder
Crotalus cerastes laterorepens

Mohave Desert Sidewinder
Crotalus cerastes cerastes