Range
The western rattlesnake is found throughout Oregon, with the exception of the Coast and Cascade mountain ranges.
Description
It is generally a heavy-bodied snake with large dark spots, a wide triangular head, a distinct eye stripe, and a rattle at the tip of the tail. It averages 31 inches in length.
Diet and habitat
It consumes mice, gophers, squirrels, rabbits, birds, lizards and amphibians. It requires rocks, cliffs and down logs for cover, and south-facing rocky dens that provide access to over-wintering sites.
Predators and threats
It is preyed upon by other snakes, carnivorous mammals and raptors. Local populations are threatened by habitat loss due to various forms of human development.
Reproduction
They breed every other fall after emerging from hibernation. Females produce three to 12 live young.