Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake
Sistrurus miliarius barbouri
A tiny, common rattlesnake of Florida wetlands and pinelands, notable for its buzzy, insect-like rattle.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.6 m (1.3-2 ft)
- Range
- Florida and southeastern United States
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Overview
The Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake is a small, heavy-bodied rattlesnake subspecies common throughout Florida and parts of the southeastern United States. Despite its diminutive size, it is one of the most frequently encountered venomous snakes in the region.
Its gray body marked with a row of dark blotches and small orange-red middorsal spots gives it a distinctive appearance, and its rattle is so tiny it produces only a faint buzzing sound.
How to identify it
- Gray to dark gray body with black dorsal blotches
- Thin reddish-orange or rust stripe often present down the middle of the back
- Very small rattle, often barely audible
- Thick body relative to length, with keeled scales
- Distinguished from young pit vipers by presence of a rattle segment
Habitat & range
Occupies pine flatwoods, wet prairies, marsh edges, and suburban areas throughout Florida. Frequently found near water and can tolerate disturbed and residential landscapes, making it a commonly seen snake in the region.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Active during the day in cooler months and at dusk or night in summer. Feeds on lizards, frogs, small mammals, and invertebrates. Generally not aggressive, but its small size and cryptic coloring mean it can go unnoticed. Live-bearing, with small litters.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake dangerous?
It is venomous, and although its size limits venom volume, encounters should be taken seriously.
Why is its rattle so quiet?
The rattle segments are extremely small, producing only a faint insect-like buzz rather than the loud rattle of larger species.
Where is it commonly found?
Throughout Florida in pine flatwoods, wet prairies, and even suburban yards near water.
What does it eat?
Small lizards, frogs, invertebrates, and occasionally small mammals.
Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake.
