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EXPLORE > ANIMALS > REPTILES
Croatus viridis
This is Oregon’s only indigenous (naturally-occurring) rattlesnake and it is uncommon on the coast although can be found through the adjacent valleys in the southwestern corner of the state. The snake has a flat, triangular-shaped head which is noticeably wider than its neck. The colors and patterns of these snakes may change between specimens depending on the habitat where they reside, but generally they will have a distinctive diamond-like pattern running across the back and black-and-white stripes at the base of the tail just before the rattles.
These snakes will be more active during early morning and evening, and will avoid the heat of the day. Although rattlesnakes may shake their rattles to warn away threats, this is not a hard-fast rule and sometimes they can strike without warning. If hiking or camping, educate yourself on the snake’s preferred habitat and daily habits. Always watch where you step and where you place your hands. If bitten, seek immediate medical care. The snake has two subspecies also found within Oregon: the Northern Pacific rattlesnake (Croatus viridian oreganus) and Great Basin rattlesnake (Croatus viridian lutosus). There may be differences in color between the subspecies, ranging from dark gray, greenish brown, yellow, salmon and black, although all will have the distinctive rattles and diamond-pattern on the back.
Range and Habitat
This rattlesnake is found through most of western and central North America, as far north as Alberta and Saskatchewan; and as far south as northwestern Chihuahua, Mexico. The snake's habitat can change dramatically according to subspecies, but mostly they prefer rocky areas with limited vegetation and an abundance of prey animals such as rodents.
Conservation Status
Common.
Related Features: Coastal Animal Concerns
Croatus viridis
This is Oregon’s only indigenous (naturally-occurring) rattlesnake and it is uncommon on the coast although can be found through the adjacent valleys in the southwestern corner of the state. The snake has a flat, triangular-shaped head which is noticeably wider than its neck. The colors and patterns of these snakes may change between specimens depending on the habitat where they reside, but generally they will have a distinctive diamond-like pattern running across the back and black-and-white stripes at the base of the tail just before the rattles.
These snakes will be more active during early morning and evening, and will avoid the heat of the day. Although rattlesnakes may shake their rattles to warn away threats, this is not a hard-fast rule and sometimes they can strike without warning. If hiking or camping, educate yourself on the snake’s preferred habitat and daily habits. Always watch where you step and where you place your hands. If bitten, seek immediate medical care. The snake has two subspecies also found within Oregon: the Northern Pacific rattlesnake (Croatus viridian oreganus) and Great Basin rattlesnake (Croatus viridian lutosus). There may be differences in color between the subspecies, ranging from dark gray, greenish brown, yellow, salmon and black, although all will have the distinctive rattles and diamond-pattern on the back.
Range and Habitat
This rattlesnake is found through most of western and central North America, as far north as Alberta and Saskatchewan; and as far south as northwestern Chihuahua, Mexico. The snake's habitat can change dramatically according to subspecies, but mostly they prefer rocky areas with limited vegetation and an abundance of prey animals such as rodents.
Conservation Status
Common.
Related Features: Coastal Animal Concerns
