NC Snake Pictures / Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

Crotalus adamanteus

Venomous; adult size 42-78 inches (1,067 to 1,980 mm); rare even in listed habitats.

Distribution key: blue=where snake is found

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is North America's largest venomous snake. It feeds on rabbits, squirrels, rats and birds. This snake is most likely to be found in pine flatwoods and fallow, brushy fields bordered by forests. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is considered by some people the most dangerous snake found in the southeastern U.S.; however, it is becoming increasingly rare. Specimens have been captured as a large as 8 feet long and weighing 15 pounds, but the average size is about 5 feet. Between 7 and 18 young are born in August or September. Fortunately this snake is unlikely to strike at a person unless provoked.