Coiled in the Dust: A Field Guide to the Rattlesnakes of Maricopa County
- kevin21738
- Sep 6
- 24 min read
By Arizona Snake Removal
Written in blood, sand, and science
Volume I: Introduction & Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)
Introduction: The Rattlesnake Republic
You don’t really live in Maricopa County—you trespass.
Every stuccoed suburb, every cul-de-sac creeping toward the jagged edge of Sonoran wilderness, is a gamble against time. Not long ago, the only things hunting these hills were coyotes, vultures, and a coiled legacy older than Arizona itself: rattlesnakes.
Seven species, each adapted to a different pocket of this sprawling desert county. From sun-bleached gravel flats and mountain canyons to urban rock walls and backyard barbecue pits—these snakes aren’t visitors. They are residents. We are intruders.
Forget the myths. They aren’t out to get you, they don’t want a fight, and they sure as hell aren’t following you home. But they’re here, and they’re woven into the biological backbone of this landscape like barbed wire through a cattle skull.
This guide isn’t just for education—it’s for survival.
For understanding. For respect.
For knowing what the hell you’re dealing with when something buzzes under your boot or slithers out from the pool filter on a 110-degree day in July.
We start where every Arizona snake conversation starts—
The Western Diamondback.
Species I: The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)
The Icon. The Survivor. The Most Misunderstood Animal in the Desert.
1. Identification & Description
Scientific name: Crotalus atrox
Common names: Western Diamondback Rattlesnake
Size: Adults typically range from 3 to 5 feet; some specimens exceed 6 feet.
Color: Variable. Tan, gray, reddish, even pinkish in some regions—marked with dark diamond-shaped dorsal blotches.
Tail pattern: Iconic black and white banded “raccoon tail”
Head: Broad, triangular, with two dark diagonal face stripes from eye to jaw.
No snake is more likely to be spotted, misidentified, feared, or filmed with shaky hands on a cell phone. Atrox is the rattlesnake in the public consciousness—deservedly so. It’s the most commonly encountered species in Maricopa County and across the Southwest.
2. Range Within Maricopa County
You’ll find them almost everywhere—from the rocky slopes of South Mountain and Camelback to the palo verde-lined washes of Cave Creek and the irrigation berms of Gilbert. I’ve even removed them from neighborhoods in Old Town Scottsdale and within sight of Sky Harbor Airport.
Altitude range: Sea level to ~5,500 ft
Habitats: Desert flats, rocky canyons, riparian corridors, golf courses, densely populated suburbs, your backyard.
Peak activity: March through October, especially late spring and early fall evenings.
They’re incredibly adaptable—if there’s cover, prey, and a thermal refuge, Atrox will be there.
3. Behavior & Ecology
Western Diamondbacks are ambush predators—they lie in wait under shrubs, in rodent burrows, or alongside trails, striking when prey (usually rodents, birds, or lizards when they’re still young) pass within range.
Diurnal in spring and fall, nocturnal in summer.
Not necessarily aggressive, but will absolutely stand their ground when cornered and are quick to become hyper-defensive. Few other rattlesnakes within Maricopa County carry the sheer intensity and danger that a defensive Western Diamondback can throw down. Their large venom yields, short temper, and tendency to occur within close proximity to urban areas are why they're responsible for the majority of serious snake bites across Arizona.
Rattle is a warning, not a challenge—many don’t rattle until they feel directly threatened.
During cooler months, they den communally in rocky outcrops, often returning to the same site year after year.
4. Venom Composition & Effects
Western Diamondback venom is a potent enzymatic concoction, built to destroy tissue and disrupt blood clotting. It’s a chemical warhead made up of:
SVMPs (Snake Venom Metalloproteinases): Break down blood vessels and connective tissue.
Serine Proteases: Cause blood clotting disturbances.
Phospholipase A2 (PLA2): Disrupts cell membranes, causes pain and inflammation.
Disintegrins: Interfere with platelet aggregation.
LAAOs (L-amino acid oxidases): Contribute to cytotoxic effects and inflammation.
Clinical Presentation (Humans):
Puncture wounds may be initially painless.
Swelling, bruising, and blistering develop quickly.
Systemic symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, metallic taste, hypotension.
Severe envenomations may require 12–50+ vials of antivenom (CroFab or Anavip)
Necrosis can occur if untreated or delayed.
Death is rare but very possible for untreated bites. Amputation or permanent disfigurement is more likely.
Clinical Presentation (Dogs):
Rapid facial or limb swelling, weakness, bleeding from punctures.
Often collapse or become unresponsive within 30–60 minutes.
Emergency antivenom administration is critical for survival.
Symptoms may not be present right away. If you suspect your dog may have been in contact with a rattlesnake- don't wait for symptoms to appear. Do check for any signs of blood, as most bites are highly anticolagulant and will often bleed before the dog shows any envenomation signs or behavioral changes.
Note: Some bites are “dry” (no venom), but many are severe—even from juveniles.
5. Breeding & Life Cycle
Mating seasons: Typically spring, but occasionally late summer as well (though not as common) Males engage in combat dances—rising and twisting to establish dominance.
Gestation: Approximately 5–6 months.
Live birth: Late summer to early fall. Litters average 4–8 neonates, each born venomous and fully functional.
Neonates remain near birth sites briefly, then disperse. They often use rodent burrows or rock crevices as first dens. Neonates are highly vulnerable to the sun and excessive heat until their first shed (usually 7-10 days after birth) After that, they begin hunting and learning to survive the unforgiving Sonoran landscape.
6. Lookalikes & Misidentifications
Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer): Similar pattern and color, but lacks a rattle and has a long-narrow head. Gopher Snakes will often hiss loudly creating a similar sound to a rattlesnake. They also will vibrate their tails when in distress, which, in dry brush can imitate a buzzing sound.
Desert Night Snake (Hypsiglena torquata) Often mistaken for juvenile rattlesnakes due to their triangular head shape, vertical pupils, and muted, cryptic coloration. When threatened, they may flatten their necks and display behaviors that mimic vipers, making them a frequent source of misidentification.
Juvenile Coachwhip (masticophis flagellum): Brown and sometimes banded, these fast-moving snakes can startle people due to their posture and speed, often offering just a split-second glimpse before vanishing out of sight.
Key ID Tips:
Broad triangular head.
Elliptical pupils (not always clear, especially when the eyes are adjusted for the dark)
Rattle (though sometimes broken or silent).
Pronounced black and white banding—“coon tail” is nearly always present.
Strong keeling on their scales, which gives them a rough and unreflective texture.
Species II: Mojave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus)
The Green Ghost of the Flats. Neurotoxic, Near-Silent, and Misunderstood.
1. Identification & Description
Scientific name: Crotalus scutulatus
Common names: Mojave rattlesnake, "Mojave green"
Size: Typically 2.5 to 4 feet, though some individuals can exceed 4.5 feet.
Color: Sometimes slightly more greenish-tan to olive brown compared to a Western Diamondback —hence the nickname “Mojave green”
Pattern: Faint diamond-like dorsal blotches similar to C. atrox, often more subdued
Tail bands: Often exhibit narrow black bands and wider white bands, usually ending on a white/yellow base rattle segment—whereas C. atrox more commonly ends on a black base segment. This is a loose differentiator and not 100% reliable due to individual variation.
Supraocular scales (the large scales above the eyes) are another clue—Mojaves typically have just two large scales between the eyes, whereas C. atrox usually has a row of multiple smaller scales.
Mojaves are the most medically significant rattlesnake species in Maricopa County due to their unique venom components. At a glance, they can appear nearly identical to Western Diamondbacks, especially in overlapping ranges like Surprise, Buckeye, and the open desert near Peoria. But this is no ordinary buzz tail.
2. Range Within Maricopa County
Found primarily in the west and northwest portions of the county.
Hotspots include Buckeye, Surprise, Tonopah, Sun City West, and northern Peoria above Jomax.
They prefer open flats with sparse creosote and mesquite, often far from mountainous areas
Rarely encountered in dense urban corridors (with one known exception), though suburban sprawl continues to push their range into neighborhoods.
Activity spikes from February through June, with another brief uptick after the monsoon season. Mojaves are typically more secretive than C. atrox and are often seen basking or coiled beneath desert debris in the warmth of midday spring, or quietly staged outside rodent burrows during late summer nights.
3. Behavior & Ecology
Despite their reputation, Mojave's in Maricopa County are generally less defensive than Western Diamondbacks. They’re cryptic, deliberate, and often motionless until a threat is right on top of them.
More likely to remain silent than rattle, especially if they haven’t been harassed before.
Capable of fast, bold movement when agitated. Behavior can be less predictable than other rattlesnake species, often biting when distressed compared to more of a defensive posturing seen in other species.
Primarily diurnal in spring, shifting to nocturnal in the heat of summer.
They don’t seek conflict—but if you’re bitten, the situation becomes deadly serious.
4. Venom Composition & Effects
This is where Mojaves earn their fearsome reputation. Their venom is bimodal: individuals produce either Type A (neurotoxic), Type B (tissue-destructive), or a mix of both.
Type A venom:
Mojave toxin — a potent presynaptic beta-neurotoxin.
Interrupts communication between nerves and muscles.
Can lead to respiratory paralysis, slurred speech, blurred vision, and death.
Type B venom:
More similar to C. atrox — enzymes that break down tissue and interfere with blood clotting.
In Maricopa County:
Most Mojaves tested have Type A or A/B hybrid venom.
Neurotoxic envenomations are common and must be treated aggressively.
Symptoms in Humans:
Early symptoms may appear mild: minimal swelling, with little initial pain.
Soon followed by ptosis (drooping eyelids), difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, and confusion.
In severe untreated cases: respiratory paralysis and death.
Antivenom:
CroFab and Anavip are effective, but treatment must begin immediately
Because early symptoms may seem deceptively mild, delays in treatment are a deadly mistake.
5. Breeding & Life Cycle
Mating typically occurs in spring, with some fall activity observed but rare.
Male combat behavior is less frequently observed than in C. atrox.
Gestation lasts around 4-5 months.
Litters range from 2 to 8 neonates, usually born in late summer or early fall.
Neonates resemble adults, sometimes with brighter tail bands and more vivid white and contrasted olive hues.
Mojave rattlesnakes tend to den individually or in loosely associated groups. Unlike C. atrox, they are less site-faithful and often use rodent burrow networks—especially those of round-tailed squirrels—among flatter, open desert scrub. They may shift overwintering sites based on temperature, prey availability, and shelter quality.
6. Lookalikes & Misidentifications
This is the snake most frequently mistaken for a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.
Key distinguishing features:
Tail banding: White bands wider than black typically = Mojave. Equal width or black-dominant = atrox. Use this method cautiously—variability exists in both species.
Color: Mojaves often show a greenish-olive hue, though it may not be obvious in all lighting.
Head shape: Mojaves tend to have a slightly larger head-to-body ratio than atrox.
Supraocular scales: Mojaves have two large scales between the eyes; C. atrox has multiple smaller scales across the crown. This is the most accurate way to differentiate between the species, other than experienced pattern recognition.
Facial stripes: Mojave face bands (postocular stripe) typically extend past the mouth, extending to the corner of the jaw, whereas in C. atrox, the band intersects with mouth and doesn't extend to the jaw, offering a subtle but useful field mark.
Also confused with:
Prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) — not found in Maricopa County.
Gopher snakes — particularly to untrained observers, especially when fast-moving or mimicking defensive rattlesnake posture.
Western Diamondback rattlesnake (crotalus atrox) — Simmilar overall appearance to the untrained eye.
Black-tailed rattllesnake (crotalus molossus) — Often more of a greenish color, because of this- most encounters with black-tailed rattlesnakes are incorrectly identified as Mojaves.
Species III: Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus pyrrhus)
Stone Ghost of the Mountains. Quiet, Coiled, and Hidden in Plain Sight.
A "South Mountain" locality Southwestern Speckled Rattlesnake (crotalus pyrrhus) sits along a rocky wash in the Ahwatukee Foothills of Phoenix, Arizona.
1. Identification & Description
Scientific name: Crotalus pyrrhus
Common names: Speckled rattlesnake, “Speck” in snake lingo
Size: Typically 2.5 to 3.5 feet; some may exceed 4 feet in ideal conditions
Color: Highly variable—gray, pink, orange, yellow, purple, blue, and even snow white, depending on the mountain range and surrounding terrain. Most North Phoenix specks are brown, reddish, or pink. South Mountain and nearby southern ranges often produce gray, blue, and white stone-colored individuals.
Pattern: Broken speckled or mottled pattern with indistinct blotches that transition into banding or striping toward the tail—perfect camouflage in rocky environments
Tail: Often lighter in color with a reduced or faded stripe pattern compared to C. atrox. Faint zebra-like tail banding is common. Rattle segments are frequently smaller, damaged, or missing entirely in wild adults
Head: Broad, heavily scaled, with angular brow ridges and large, pronounced supraoculars (raised scales above the eyes that give the head a horned, sculpted appearance)
This is the snake the rocks themselves would dream up if they had fangs. An almost supernatural master of camouflage, C. pyrrhus is one of the most beautiful and elusive rattlesnakes in Arizona—most often seen only when someone nearly steps or sits on one.
2. Range Within Maricopa County
Found in rugged, rocky terrain and talus slopes, especially in:
South Mountain Preserve
Phoenix Mountain Preserve
Estrella Mountains
Camelback Mountain and the surrounding foothills
North Peoria rocky hillsides
Often overlooked due to camouflage and reclusive habits.
Altitude range: 1,000 to 5,000 feet, favoring higher elevations and the boulder-strewn washes that flow between.
Their camouflage is so effective that even seasoned field herpers walk past them without noticing. Most encounters occur when the snake moves or is directly underfoot.
3. Behavior & Ecology
Temperament varies by individual and population, but generally, Speckled Rattlesnakes are less defensive and less likely to rattle or strike than Western Diamondbacks. They rely almost entirely on invisibility. That said, some of the most defensive snakes I’ve ever removed were South Mountain Speckled Rattlesnakes —so exceptions exist.
Primarily nocturnal during summer, but will bask on rock ledges in spring mornings and fall afternoons.
Often found coiled in tight crevices or wedged under large rocks, head facing outward
Diet includes rodents, birds, and lizards—primarily ambush predators, though they may actively hunt during cooler conditions.
Speckled rattlesnakes typically return to the same rock complex year after year. Their movements are closely tied to microhabitat structure—they don’t travel far and do not respond well to improper relocation.
4. Venom Composition & Effects
Pyrrhus venom is enzymatic and cytotoxic but considered less potent (milligram for milligram) than C. atrox or C. scutulatus. Still, don’t let that lull you into complacency:
Contains SVMPs, Serine Proteases, and PLA2 enzymes.
Causes localized pain, swelling, and tissue destruction.
Envenomation is Medically Significant and must be treated.
Delayed symptoms can occur, particularly with deep punctures or bites near joints.
In dogs:
Serious envenomations are possible depending on bite location and dog size.
Survival rates are high with immediate veterinary care, but long-term tissue damage is common.
This species isn’t known for high venom yields, but the depth and placement of the bite are often more consequential than toxicity alone.
5. Breeding & Life Cycle
Mating typically occurs in spring.
Gestation lasts about 5 months or more.
Live birth occurs from late summer, especially through October. This species tends to give birth later in the season compared to other rattlesnakes within Maricopa County.
Litters are small—usually 2 to 6 neonates.
Neonates resemble adults but may have more pronounced blotching and slightly duller colors. These snakes undergo an ontogenetic shift in color and pattern as they mature.
Neonates may den communally or alone, depending on habitat structure and available shelter.
6. Lookalikes & Misidentifications
The Speckled Rattlesnake’s fragmented pattern and wide range of color morphs often lead to misidentifications—even by locals:
Tiger Rattlesnake (Crotalus tigris): Shares similar pink or tan hues. Unlike pyrrhus, it lacks the abrupt zebra-like banding near the tail. The pattern of tigris is generally consistent all the way to the rattle. Tiger rattlesnakes also have a disproportionately small head compared to their body and a large rattle relative to their overall size.
Gopher Snake: Occasionally confused due to blotchy patterning and tail-shaking behavior. Let’s be real—almost every snake gets confused with this poor guy at some point.
Key identification traits:
If it blends perfectly into granite, volcanic rock, or the local stone— it’s likely pyrrhus.
Shorter, stubbier body proportions than C. atrox.
Prominent supraocular scales- giving it a “horned” appearance.
Abrupt shift in pattern near the tail—often forming faint zebra-like striping.
Head markings and camouflage patterns often match the exact hue and texture of its native rock outcrop.
Species IV: Tiger Rattlesnake (Crotalus tigris)
The Little King of Venom. Desert recluse, banded like a convict, toxic like a war crime.
1. Identification & Description
Scientific name: Crotalus tigris
Common names: Tiger rattlesnake
Size: 18 to 36 inches—one of the smaller rattlesnake species in North America.
Color: Pale gray, pinkish, or brownish-orange depending on terrain. Some localities can even appear dark blue.
Pattern: Bold, dark crossbands from neck to tail—like jagged tiger stripes.
Head: Tiny. The smallest head-to-body ratio of any rattlesnake—a stubby, triangular blip perched atop a thick, muscular neck.
Tail: Short and thin, with a relatively large and loud rattle for its size. No abrupt pattern shift or zebra-banding near the rattle like in C. atrox, C. scutulatus, or C. pyrrhus.
Tiger rattlesnakes are compact, bizarrely built, and fiercely unique. The small head looks almost comical—until you realize it’s housing one of the most potent venoms on the continent.
2. Range Within Maricopa County
Not often found or seen, but common within their small range in Maricopa County—if you know where to look.
These small cryptic species can occur in several areas of Maricopa County such as:
South Mountain Preserve
Desert foothills and rocky bajadas of the Estrellas
New River hillsides
Rocky hills of Peoria
Phoenix Mountain Preserve
Prefers rocky desert slopes with large crevices and intense sun exposure.
Altitude: 1,000–4,000 ft, often in areas too harsh or arid for more water-dependent species.
These snakes are ultra-localized. A few hundred square meters of perfect rocky terrain may support a micro-population, while the next canyon over has none.
3. Behavior & Ecology
Tiger rattlesnakes are reclusive, nocturnal, and reluctant to engage. They’re not quick to rattle, relying instead on camouflage. If they do rattle, it’s typically brief—just enough to say, “back off.”
Active from late spring through early fall, especially during hot summer nights.
Will bask briefly in early morning or late evening, then retreat into deep rock crevices.
Known to shift between microhabitats for thermoregulation (shade vs. sun-exposed rocks)
Diet includes small rodents, lizards, and occasionally birds.
Their thick body and tiny head are built for one thing: injecting a surgical dose of venom into fast-moving prey. They don’t fight—they neutralize.
4. Venom Composition & Effects
Tiger rattlesnake venom is a neurotoxic bombshell—especially potent given the snake’s small size.
Contains Mojave toxin-like Presynaptic Neurotoxins that block nerve signals.
Also includes SVMPs, PLA2s, and Serine Proteases—enzymes that break down tissue, disrupt blood vessels, and cause cell death.
This makes the venom both neurotoxic and cytotoxic, capable of shutting down nerves while damaging tissue.
LD50 (mice, subcutaneous):
Among the lowest recorded for any rattlesnake, meaning extreme potency in small doses. Its subcutaneous LD₅₀ sits around 0.21 mg/kg, making it dozens of times more toxic drop-for-drop than the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox), which falls closer to 18–20 mg/kg. In fact, the tiger rattlesnake’s venom is more in line with Australia’s Death Adder (Acanthophis spp.), which averages around 0.4 mg/kg and ranks among the top ten most venomous species on earth. To put it simply: a diamondback carries a lot of venom but it’s relatively weak per milligram, while the tiger rattlesnake delivers only a small dose but it’s chemical firepower is far stronger — much like its Australian adder counterpart.
Envenomation in Humans:
Extremely rare, but always Medically Significant.
Can cause respiratory difficulty, numbness, weakness, localized swelling, and tissue damage
Requires immediate antivenom treatment (CroFab or Anavip).
Symptoms may start mild and worsen over several hours.
Tiger rattlesnakes don’t waste venom. They’re precision strikers—evolved to end a chase before it begins. Bites to humans are typically defensive and low-yield—but that’s no comfort if you’re the one who stepped too close.
5. Breeding & Life Cycle
Mating likely occurs in spring.
Litters are small—usually 2 to 4 neonates, born in late summer through October.
Neonates are well-camouflaged, alert, and biologically capable from birth.
Dens are deep rock fissures, often shared with C. pyrrhus or C. molossus in overlapping ranges.
Tiger rattlesnakes likely exhibit strong site fidelity, returning to the same overwintering crevices annually. Their range is narrow, and even minor habitat disruption could eliminate entire local populations.
6. Lookalikes & Misidentifications
Despite their distinct banding, Tiger rattlesnakes are often mistaken for:
Juvenile Speckled Rattlesnakes (especially in South Mountain)
Juvenile Gophersnakes or Kingsnakes
Occasionally misidentified as small C. atrox at a glance due to body size and pattern
Key identification traits:
Tiny head—unnaturally small for a rattlesnake.
Thick neck and stocky upper body.
Short, abrupt taper to the tail.
No "zebra" banding near the rattle.
Distinct tiger-banded pattern running consistently down the back.
When in doubt, assume it’s venomous. Because if it’s tigris, it’s serious.
Species V: Black-tailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus)
The Gentleman Viper. Smooth, elusive, and as deadly as it is beautiful.
1. Identification & Description
Scientific name: Crotalus molossus
Common names: Black-tailed rattlesnake
Size: 2.5 to 4 feet on average; some reach up to 5 feet.
Color: Olive green, golden brown, yellowish, or gray—sometimes with a subtle iridescent sheen.
Pattern: Faint to well-defined dark dorsal blotches over a clean background.
Tail: Solid black or dark charcoal, giving the species its name.
Head: Broad, sharply defined, with a black facial stripe extending from the eye to the jaw—creating a masked, almost regal look.
This is the snake you rarely see, but when you do, it looks like it chose to be seen. Molossus has a calm presence, refined behavior, and stunning looks.
2. Range Within Maricopa County
Found in foothills and upland zones of:
South Mountain
McDowell Mountains
Estrella Mountains
Northern Maricopa near Lake Pleasant
Eastern edge of the county near the Superstition-adjacent highlands
Prefers rocky, forested, or semi-arid mountainous terrain, but occasionally descends into lower desert washes.
Altitude range: Typically 1,500 to 7,000 feet.
Far less commonly encountered than atrox or pyrrhus, but they’re out there—especially on warm spring mornings or after monsoon rains. Primarily nocturnal, but often seen on late evening hikes or patios during summer nights.
3. Behavior & Ecology
Black-tailed rattlesnakes in Maricopa County are deliberate, non-confrontational, and widely respected for their calm demeanor. That’s not to say they’re tame—if threatened, they will bite—but they tend to vanish before conflict arises.
Somewhat diurnal in spring and fall, shifting to crepuscular or nocturnal in peak summer
Excellent climbers—often found coiled on ledges, boulders, or low branches
Diet includes rodents, birds, lizards, and occasionally other snakes.
4. Venom Composition & Effects
Molossus venom is Enzyme-rich and Cytotoxic, though typically less aggressive in effect than that of atrox or scutulatus.
Contains SVMPs, PLA2s, and LAAOs—enzymes that damage tissue and disrupt blood vessels.
Typically results in localized swelling, pain, and bruising.
Systemic effects are usually milder, but every bite is still Medically Significant.
In dogs:
Facial or limb bites can cause serious swelling or necrosis.
Immediate veterinary care and antivenom are strongly advised—outcomes are usually favorable.
Bites are relatively rare due to the snake’s avoidance behavior and calm disposition.
5. Breeding & Life Cycle
Mating occurs in spring and early summer.
Gestation lasts about 4 to 5 months.
Live birth typically in late summer or early fall.
Litters average 4 to 8 neonates, born fully venomous and self-sufficient.
Juveniles resemble adults but may display sharper contrast in pattern.
Molossus are generally den-site faithful but may den alone or in loose groups. They often reuse known rock fissures or basking ledges year after year, sometimes cohabiting with C. pyrrhus, C. tigris, or even Gila Monsters (heloderma suspectum).
6. Lookalikes & Misidentifications
The solid black tail is a dead giveaway—but only if you see it. Otherwise, they’re often mistaken for:
Speckled Rattlesnakes—especially gold or gray morphs
Gophersnakes—as always, the perennial scapegoat
Mojave Rattlesnakes—some “Mojave green” sightings may actually be molossus, as this species often displays a more vibrant greenish hue than most true Mojaves. It’s entirely possible the nickname “Mojave green” originated from confusion with this species rather than C. scutulatus itself.
Key identification traits:
Solid black tail with no banding near the rattle.
Smooth, refined dorsal pattern without abrupt color changes.
Dark eye stripe (facial band from eye to jaw).
Deliberate, graceful movements— usually lacking the hyper-defensive behavior of atrox.
Species VI: Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes cercobombus)
The Sand Dancer. Horned, fast, and built for war in the wastelands.
1. Identification & Description
Scientific name: Crotalus cerastes cercobombus
Common names: Sidewinder, horned rattlesnake
Size: 12 to 24 inches; rarely exceeds 28 inches
Color: Sandy beige, pinkish-tan, or gray depending on soil—hyper-adaptive camouflage.
Pattern: Distinct dark dorsal blotches with lateral shading, often outlined in pale borders.
Head: Flattened and wide, with horn-like supraocular scales above each eye.
Tail: Often banded in black and white, especially in juveniles. Adults retain some degree of banding near the rattle.
This is the only rattlesnake in Maricopa County that truly sidewinds—moving in that signature, otherworldly S-motion that leaves a calligraphic trail in the dust. They don’t slither. They skate.
And when they’re coiled and ready to strike, they look like a loaded spring dipped in sand.
2. Range Within Maricopa County
Found in the southwestern and western deserts of the county, favoring areas with:
Loose, fine sand or gravel.
Sparse desert vegetation like creosote, bursage, and cholla.
Dune-like terrain and open flats with soft substrate.
Key locations include:
Buckeye
Goodyear
Vistancia and Trilogy neighborhoods
San Tan Valley
Casa Grande
West Surprise
West Peoria
Altitude range: Below 2,500 feet
They are remarkably heat-tolerant, often active in brutal summer temperatures that drive other species underground.
3. Behavior & Ecology
Sidewinders are specialists—built to thrive in punishing desert flats. Their sidewinding motion reduces friction and surface contact with scorching sand.
Primarily nocturnal
Frequently bury themselves under loose sand, leaving only their horns and eyes exposed—like desert snipers.
Known for raising their heads and striking with little warning—quick, punchy, and unpredictable.
Diet consists mostly of lizards and small rodents.
4. Venom Composition & Effects
Sidewinder venom is primarily cytotoxic and enzyme-rich—less potent than C. atrox or C. tigris by volume, but still Medically Significant.
Contains SVMPs, PLA2s, and other tissue-damaging enzymes.
Capable of causing swelling, bruising, necrosis, and intense pain.
Severity varies depending on snake size, depth of bite, and envenomation volume.
Rarely fatal, but envenomation requires urgent medical attention.
In dogs:
Facial bites can lead to rapid swelling, vomiting, shock, and respiratory distress.
Immediate veterinary care with fluids and antivenom is strongly recommended.
While less toxic than Mojaves or Tigers, deep bites from an adult Sidewinder—or multiple strikes—can absolutely result in hospitalization and should still be considered life-threatening.
5. Breeding & Life Cycle
Mating occurs in spring.
Gestation lasts approximately 3 to 4 months.
Live birth typically occurs in late summer.
Litters range from 4 to 8 neonates, depending on female size and health.
Neonates are born fully venomous and begin hunting within days.
Sidewinders often use communal rookeries or burrow networks, especially in areas lacking permanent rock shelter.
They den deeply during winter, although some individuals may remain semi-active during warm spells.
6. Lookalikes & Misidentifications
Exceptionally well-camouflaged and frequently misidentified, especially in sandy or gravelly terrain.
Common misidentifications include:
Gophersnakes
Desert Nightsnakes
Key ID traits:
Sidewinding tracks in the sand—unmistakable and unlike any other species.
Horned supraocular scales above each eye (visible in all adults, though sometimes worn down in older individuals).
Low-coiled, spring-loaded posture—short and explosive strike range.
Species VII: Arizona Black Rattlesnake (Crotalus cerberus)
The Shapeshifter. Rare, reclusive, and just barely inside the wire.
1. Identification & Description
Scientific name: Crotalus cerberus
Common names: Arizona Black Rattlesnake
Size: Typically 2.5 to 4 feet; occasionally up to 4.5 feet
Color: Juveniles display vivid black and grey banding; adults darken to chocolate, jet black, or blue-gray.
Pattern: Highly variable—some adults are nearly patternless, while others retain ghosted saddle-like dorsal blotches.
Head: Large and blunt, often with a slightly bluish or velvety sheen in mature individuals.
Notable trait: Capable of physiological color change—can shift appearance within minutes in response to temperature or mood.
Cerberus is a snake of shadows—one of the few rattlesnakes that can literally shift its appearance to match its environment. Its Latin name isn’t just mythology. This thing guards the edge of the wild.
2. Range Within Maricopa County
Arizona Black Rattlesnakes are barely within Maricopa County’s borders—but they do occur.
Confirmed range in Maricopa County:
Far northeastern edge, where Tonto National Forest meets the county line
Areas bordering the Four Peaks Wilderness, Mount Ord, and Mazatzal Mountains
Typically found above 2,500 feet in pine-oak woodland, canyons, and shaded slopes.
They do not occur in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or any low desert or suburban areas within the county. But on the right ridge, in the right forested drainage at elevation? You might catch one slipping through the leaf litter.
Range boundaries are blurry—shaped by fire, development, and climate—but cerberus remains a high-elevation central Arizona endemic.
3. Behavior & Ecology
Primarily diurnal in cooler months; crepuscular or nocturnal in peak summer.
Prefers forested canyons, rocky pine slopes, and moisture-trapping drainages.
Often seen basking near downed logs, pine needles, or granite ledges.
Generally shy and non-aggressive—will rattle and posture when threatened but often flees if given space. If cornered or harassed, they will absolutely strike and can deliver a potent bite.
What sets cerberus apart is its ability to change color rapidly—often darkening or lightening within an hour based on temperature, background, or stress. This rare trait among rattlesnakes makes it nearly invisible in the right conditions.
These snakes are highly philopatric—tied to small, familiar home ranges they rarely stray from.
4. Venom Composition & Effects
Cerberus venom is cytotoxic and proteolytic, with distinct differences from its lowland cousins.
Contains Disintegrins, SVMPs, and PLA2s—enzymes that destroy tissue, damage blood vessels, and disrupt clotting.
Capable of causing significant swelling, bruising, necrosis, and clotting disorders.
Not known to cause neurotoxic symptoms like C. scutulatus or C. tigris.
Bites to humans are rare but can be Severe—especially due to delayed response in remote terrain.
In dogs:
Facial or limb bites can cause shock, collapse, and death without fast treatment.
Recovery is likely with prompt veterinary care and antivenom.
Venom composition may vary by location. Some isolated populations show unique proteomic signatures not found in other cerberus groups.
5. Breeding & Life Cycle
Mating occurs in both spring and fall.
Gestation lasts about 4 to 5 months.
Live birth typically in late summer or early fall.
Litters average 4 to 6 neonates.
Neonates are boldly patterned in black and light gray.
Cerberus often dens communally in high-elevation rock outcrops, sometimes alongside C. molossus or other montane species in transitional habitats just outside Maricopa County.
6. Lookalikes & Misidentifications
Easily misidentified by hikers in Arizona’s high country:
Juvenile kingsnakes (lampropeltis getula)—similar black-and-white banding
Gophersnakes (pituophis sp)—as always
Black-tailed Rattlesnakes (crotalus molossus) —especially older individuals with dark coloration
Timber Rattlesnakes (crotalus horridus)—commonly (and incorrectly) cited in Arizona, but they do not occur anywhere in the state.
Key identification traits:
Ability to change color—one of the only rattlesnakes in North America that can.
Bold banding in juveniles.
Matte, velvety texture in adults.
Restricted range—only found in high-elevation forests and cool, shaded habitats in the far northeastern county edge.
The Real Role of Snake Removal
It’s not about danger—it’s about education, habitat balance, and biological diplomacy. Professional rattlesnake removal in Phoenix and surrounding areas isn’t just showing up with a bucket. It’s about:
Knowing each species’ behavior, range, and denning habits.
Reading temperature, terrain, and threat response.
Relocating strategically, not randomly.
Giving homeowners peace of mind—and snakes a second chance at survival in their native range.
Whether it’s a Western Diamondback behind a grill in Scottsdale or a Mojave rattlesnake in a garage in Buckeye, every call is different. Every relocation must be precise, ethical, and rooted in understanding.
We don’t relocate snakes to erase fear—we do it to meet it halfway.
To stand at the line between your white picket fence and the raw, unfiltered force of nature just beyond it.
For the ecosystem.
For public safety.
And for the people trying to live alongside one of the most unique biological regions in North America.
Closing Statement from the Field
The Sonoran Desert doesn’t care about your mortgage.
It doesn’t care about your HOA regulations, your backyard pool install, or your plans to landscape with mesquite and flagstone.
But the rattlesnakes?
They’ve been here longer than anything with a property line.
They were here when the ground was still volcanic and red—when mammoths drank from what’s now just an arroyo behind a Phoenix strip mall.
These seven species are not pests.
They’re remnants of a primal order—survivors engineered by evolution to thrive in a slice of Arizona that most people only ever see through a windshield.
To live in Maricopa County is to live alongside them.
And to understand them is to understand this desert we claim to call home.
Next time there’s a rattlesnake in your yard, think twice before swinging a shovel. This isn’t some mindless monster—it’s a survivor. It’s made it through floods, drought, bulldozers, and highways. It’s dodged hawks, tires, and terrified humans with rakes. It’s been here longer than your mailbox and probably fought harder to stay.
You don’t have to love snakes. But at least respect the hell out of one that’s managed to outlive the chaos this long.
State Licensed by Arizona Game & Fish Department
Arizona Snake Removal
Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Peoria, and the entire Maricopa County region with fast, humane rattlesnake removal and prevention.
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