Banded Rock Rattlesnake
Crotalus lepidus klauberi
A small, colorful rattlesnake of rocky mountain slopes, known for its bold black or dark bands set against a bluish-gray to greenish body.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Mountainous southwestern United States and northern Mexico
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Banded Rock Rattlesnake is a subspecies of the rock rattlesnake found in mountainous, rocky habitats of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is prized among naturalists for its striking coloration, which can range from bluish-gray to greenish depending on locality.
It is well camouflaged among lichen-covered rocks and boulder fields, where it spends much of its time motionless while waiting for prey.
How to identify it
- Background color ranging from bluish-gray, gray-green, to pale olive
- Bold, widely spaced black or dark crossbands
- Small, relatively slender body compared to larger rattlesnake species
- Broad triangular head, elliptical pupils, heat-sensing pits
- Small rattle
- Distinguished from the mottled rock rattlesnake by more distinct, evenly spaced banding
Habitat & range
Found on rocky slopes, canyon walls, and talus habitat in mountainous regions of Arizona, New Mexico, western Texas, and northern Mexico, typically at moderate to high elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily crepuscular and nocturnal in warm weather, more diurnal in cooler conditions. Feeds on lizards and small rodents. Reproduces via live birth. Highly reliant on camouflage, often remaining motionless against rock rather than fleeing.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Banded Rock Rattlesnake differ from the Mottled Rock Rattlesnake?
The banded form typically shows more distinct, evenly spaced crossbands compared to the more blotched, mottled pattern of its relative.
Where is it found?
In rocky mountain habitats of Arizona, New Mexico, western Texas, and northern Mexico.
What color is it typically?
Its background color ranges from bluish-gray to greenish, with bold black crossbands.
How does it avoid predators?
It relies heavily on camouflage against rock surfaces, often remaining motionless rather than fleeing.
Banded Rock Rattlesnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Banded Rock Rattlesnake.
