Tiger Rattlesnake
Crotalus tigris
The Tiger rattlesnake (Crotalus tigris) boasts an array of distinctive characteristics that make it readily distinguishable from other rattlesnake species:
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Head: A notable feature of the tiger rattlesnake is its diminutive, spade-shaped head, which accounts for roughly 1/25 of its total body length. In fact, it possesses the smallest head among all known rattlesnakes.
Rattle: At the end of its tail, the tiger rattlesnake possesses a relatively large rattle, which it employs as a warning instrument when feeling threatened.
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Coloration and Pattern: These rattlesnakes exhibit a captivating color pattern. Their dorsal, or back, color can range from hues of gray, lavender, blue-gray, pink, to buff, often transitioning to pink, pale orange, or cream on the sides. However, what truly distinguishes them is the presence of crossbands on the anterior (front) part of their bodies. These crossbands, numbering between 35 to 52, are typically gray, olive, or brown, featuring prominent heavy punctations. These crossbands tend to have indistinct borders and are broader dorsally (towards the back) than laterally (on the sides). Towards the mid-dorsal region, these crossbands become progressively wider than the spaces that separate them.
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Head Markings: While the markings on the head of the tiger rattlesnake are generally vague and irregular, towards the rear of the head, one may discern a few dark markings arranged as paired occipital blotches and upper temporal streaks. The most prominent head marking is a distinctive dark cheek strip.
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Scales: Dorsal scales are keeled and arranged in 21 to 27 rows.
Size: Tiger rattlesnakes are relatively small in size when compared to other rattlesnake species. Individuals can reach weights of up to 454 grams (16.0 ounces) and vary in length from 460 to 910 mm (18 to 36 inches), with an average length of approximately 609 mm (24.0 inches). The largest recorded specimen, as documented by Klauber in 1956, measured 88.5 cm (34.8 inches) until a subsequent report by H.M. Smith and Brodie in 1982, which documented a maximum length of 91.2 cm (35.9 inches).
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