Eastern Diamondbacks are one of the largest and most dangerous rattlesnake species. This article will discuss its characteristics as well as its habitat.
The Eastern Diamondback, crotalus adamantus, is the largest rattlesnake species in North America and one of its heaviest venomous snakes as well. Mature adults can grow up to seven feet, but typically are closer to six. Found mainly in the southeastern part of the United States, its range is typically from southern areas of North Carolina down to Florida and west into Louisiana.
Characteristics and habitat
The eastern diamondback is generally brownish in color, with a black triangular pattern extending down its back, with the interior of these diamonds usually consisting of a cream color. It possesses the longest fangs of any North American rattlesnake relative to its length and is considered to be one of the most dangerous and poisonous snakes there. It likes to live in burrows that are made by gophers or tortoises and prefers heavily forested areas. It can also be found in marshes and swampy areas, as well.
Behavior
By nature, this snake isn’t overly aggressive. They are generally reclusive and can live up to twenty years. These snakes aren’t good climbers, but can manage negotiating small bushes and trees, in the pursuit of a meal. They are, however, good swimmers and can actually swim fairly long distances. Similar to most rattlesnakes, they possess a well-developed rattle that can be heard from quite a distance. On occasion, it has been known to remain silent to allow a predator to pass without being detected. Like most snakes, it would prefer to run than to waste its venom for defense. If cornered, however, the snake will lift its anterior half of its body into the classic S shaped rattlesnake coil. This defense allows the snake to strike a distance approximately a third of its length. It is capable of delivering multiple strikes if necessary.
Food
Eastern diamondbacks generally eat a variety of rabbits, birds and rodents. Adult diamondbacks have been known to being able to consume larger cottontail rabbits. These snakes generally wait in hiding to ambush their prey. They deliver the fatal blow and allow the animal to escape, until it perishes. Following their scent, they find their prey dead and usually predigested by its venom. They then proceed to swallow their prey whole. Eastern Diamondbacks don't have too many natural enemies, other than man encroaching on its territory. Juvenile eastern diamondbacks can be prey for eagles, hawks and other snakes.
Reproduction
These snakes are ovoviviparous. This means that the young develop in eggs within the mothers’ body, until nearly ready to hatch. At that point the eggs are laid and the young hatch out. Gestation can last for six to seven months and a typical brood usually consists of about a dozen young. The young stay with the mother for a very short time and possess potent venom at birth. The females generally give birth between July and October.
Venom
Being large and powerful, they yield copious amounts of venom when they bite. When bitten victims experience extreme pain, spontaneous bleeding at the bite site, swelling and discoloration of the limb bitten, tissue necrosis and hypotension. If bitten, immediate medical attention is needed. Fortunately antivenins are available to counteract the destruction of the poison.
Eastern Diamondbacks are the largest rattlesnake species in North America. They are reclusive, by nature and hunt smaller animals. Generally non-aggressive, they are large, powerful, venomous and extremely dangerous.
References
Conant R. 1975. A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Eastern and Central North America. Second Edition.
