Aruba Island Rattlesnake
Crotalus unicolor
A critically endangered rattlesnake found only on the island of Aruba, restricted to a small area of remaining dry forest habitat.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.0-1.5 m (3.3-5 ft)
- Range
- Aruba, southern Caribbean
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Overview
The Aruba Island Rattlesnake is endemic to the small Caribbean island of Aruba and is considered one of the rarest rattlesnakes in the world. It is closely related to the South American rattlesnake and is adapted to the island's arid scrubland.
Habitat loss and human development have severely restricted its range to a small protected area, making it a focus of conservation breeding and habitat protection efforts.
How to identify it
- Pale tan, grayish, or light brown background coloration
- Faint, poorly defined diamond-shaped dorsal blotches
- Overall lighter and less contrasted pattern than mainland South American rattlesnakes
- Broad triangular head, elliptical pupils, heat-sensing pits
- Segmented rattle
- Distinguished from related rattlesnakes by pale coloration and restricted island range
Habitat & range
Restricted to the arid, cactus-scrub habitat of Aruba, particularly within Arikok National Park. Occupies rocky, dry terrain with sparse vegetation typical of the island's interior.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, especially during the hottest parts of the year. Feeds on small mammals and lizards. Reproduces via live birth. Population is small and closely monitored due to conservation concern; behavior is generally shy and avoidant of human contact.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Aruba Island Rattlesnake endangered?
Yes, it is critically endangered due to its extremely limited range and ongoing habitat pressures on the island.
Where is it found?
Only on the island of Aruba in the southern Caribbean, primarily within Arikok National Park.
Is it related to mainland rattlesnakes?
It is closely related to the South American rattlesnake, Crotalus durissus, and is sometimes treated as a subspecies of it.
What does its coloration look like?
It has a pale tan or grayish background with faint, poorly defined diamond markings compared to mainland relatives.
Aruba Island Rattlesnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Aruba Island Rattlesnake.
