Crotalus ravus

(Cope, 1865)

Vernacular names
English : Mexican pygmy rattlesnake
French : Crotale pygmée du Mexique

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Viperidae
Notes : 3 subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a maximum length of 70 cm. Head is triangular and massive with large scales on forehead. Coloration is usually light beige to brown or grey-brown with dark-edged brown squarish blotches on back.

Range and habitat
The species is found in Central America and endemic to south Mexico, in the states of Puebla, Veracruz, Morelos, Tlaxcala, Guerrero, Oaxaca and Hidalgo. Mostly found in mountain forests and scrublands, from 1490 to 3000 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : This species is protected by Mexican law and remains quite common within its range. Vulnerable to persecution and habitat loss for agriculture.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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