Gallery 3 - Earth Bound   >   Down to Earth   >   Critters  >   Rattlesnake

We encountered this Blacktail Rattlesnake on a walk in south east arizona in September after the monsoons. This snake has one of the most beautiful patterns which is often replicated in fashion styles of the southwest.

This Blacktail was about three feet long and made a lot of noise with its tail as we walked past it. We didn't see it at first as it blended into the surroundings. These snakes are not as deadly as other snakes in the area like the Mojave Rattlesnake.

It was amazing to hear the very loud rattle that warned us of its presence. These snakes are not usually aggressive just noisy to scare you off and their venom is mildly toxic. It was very exciting to encouter this creature in the wild. These photos were taken with a 200mm lens, so we were careful not to get too close.