Uracoan Rattlesnake
Crotalus vegrandis
A small, restricted-range rattlesnake found only in a limited area of savanna in northeastern Venezuela.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Monagas state, northeastern Venezuela
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Uracoan Rattlesnake is a small rattlesnake with a very limited natural distribution, confined to the Uracoa region of Monagas state in northeastern Venezuela. It is one of the least studied rattlesnakes due to its restricted range.
It is closely related to the South American rattlesnake but is distinguished by its smaller size and more limited distribution within a narrow band of savanna habitat.
How to identify it
- Small body size compared to related South American rattlesnakes
- Tan or light brown background color
- Faint or reduced diamond-shaped dorsal blotches
- Broad triangular head, elliptical pupils, heat-sensing pits
- Segmented rattle
- Distinguished from the South American rattlesnake mainly by smaller size and restricted Venezuelan range
Habitat & range
Restricted to savanna and open grassland habitat within the Uracoa region of Monagas state, Venezuela. Occupies flat, open terrain with scattered vegetation typical of llanos-type habitat.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Believed to be primarily nocturnal, though its behavior is not extensively documented due to limited study. Likely feeds on small mammals and lizards, consistent with related species. Reproduces via live birth.
Frequently asked questions
How rare is the Uracoan Rattlesnake?
It has one of the smallest known ranges of any rattlesnake, restricted to a small area of Venezuela.
Is it related to the South American Rattlesnake?
Yes, it is closely related to Crotalus durissus and is sometimes treated as a subspecies of it.
Where exactly is it found?
Within the Uracoa region of Monagas state in northeastern Venezuela.
Why is little known about this species?
Its very restricted range and remote habitat have limited the amount of field research conducted on it.
Uracoan Rattlesnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Uracoan Rattlesnake.
