Crotalus polystictus

(Cope, 1865)

Vernacular names
English : Mexican lance-headed rattlesnake
French : Crotale de Tocula

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Viperidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach nearly 100 cm in length, generally less. Unmistakable. Elongated head, not so distinct from neck. Coloration is beige to light brown with five rows of big light-edged chestnut brown blotches on back and flanks.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in Central America and is endemic to central Mexico, being found in Zacatecas, Colima, Veracruz, Aguascalientes, Morelos, Durango). Lives in pine-oak forests, rocky areas, grasslands, in mountains and valleys.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species is still very common in some areas of its range but is declining because of habitat loss and over collection for animal trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America

Observation

 

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