IDENTIFICATION

 

Size:                  A large sized snake measuring 30 to 60 inches in length.

 

Color:                Variable dorsal pattern of dark bands on a black, brown or

                           yellow background. The venter is light yellow in color.

                           There are two distinct color morphs the black phase and

                           yellow phase. There is a distinct heat sensitive pit on

                           each side of the triangular-shaped head between the

                           nostril and eye and a distinct rattle at the tip of the tail.

                           Keeled scales.             

 

Behavior:         Typically remains still to avoid detection. Occasionally will

                           announce their presence by rattling their tails.

 

Habitat:            Open and closed canopy habitats within steep rocky

                           terrain.