Crotalus pyrrhus (Cope, 1866)

Adult Length

Adults of Crotalus pyrrhus have an average total length of 3 feet (91 cm), and may occasionally grow longer than 4 feet (120 cm).

Base Coloration

This species' color pattern is variable, matching the color of the rocks and soil in its local habitat. The snake's base ground color can be pink, brown, gray, yellow, or nearly white, with a fine speckling of black and white scales.

Body Markings

When a distinct pattern is present, it can be made up of rhombus-shaped markings, crossbands, or irregular blotches. The tail is marked with light and dark rings.

US Distribution

This species is found in the southwestern United States, specifically in southern California, southern Nevada, southwestern Utah, and western Arizona.

Mexico Distribution

It also occurs in northwestern Mexico, in northwestern Sonora and northern Baja California.

Type Locality History

Cope's original 1867 description of the species did not include a formal type locality. In 1875, Coues, working within Wheeler's published expedition report, listed the type locality as "Cañon Prieto, a locality near Fort Whipple [Yavapai County], Arizona."

Primary Habitat

Crotalus pyrrhus occupies rocky terrain, including rocky hillsides, canyons, talus slopes, and rock ledges.

Southern California Habitat

In southern California, individuals have sometimes been found in chaparral or areas dominated by cacti, but almost never wander far from rocky outcrops that provide their primary shelter.

Non-Rocky Habitat Use

The species is not restricted exclusively to rocky habitats, and individuals have been observed emerging from mammal burrows at dusk.

Elevation Range

It has been recorded at elevations over 5,000 feet (1,500 m).

Reproduction

Crotalus pyrrhus is ovoviviparous; females give birth to live young, with litters reaching up to 12 offspring per birth.

Neonates

Newborn neonates measure 12 inches (30 cm) in length, and feed primarily on lizards.