The pygmy rattlesnake is one of the smallest snakes around but do not let the size fool you. This rattlesnake is fully equipped and can harm you given the chance to bite. Often mistaken for other species, the pygmy rattlesnake is actually quite reclusive. It would much rather stay far away from humans and will do all it can to avoid confrontation. If you live anywhere the pygmy resides, you should be aware of how to identify this dangerous little rattlesnake.
Ten Facts about Pygmy Rattlesnake
- A small species with adults usually growing to 40-60 cm (16-24 in) in length. Maximum reported length are 78.8 cm (31.0 in) (Klauber, 1972).
- The Carolina pigmy rattler is found in the northeastern, northwestern, and central portion of Georgia and throughout South Carolina.
- Pigmy rattlesnakes spend most of their time well-hidden among leaf litter and can be very hard to spot.
- Prey including lizards, frogs, small mammals, and insects as well as centipedes.
- Females give birth to live young in the late summer or fall.
- The pygmy rattlesnake bite is not as serious as some other venomous bites, it can still be a very dangerous bite.
- They love the sand hills but are often found near a water source such as a creek or stream.
- Life span can be 20+ years.
- Attain sexual maturity at 2-3 years.
- Raccoons, Birds, foxes, hawks, are some their predators.
