Sistrurus tergeminus

(Say, 1823)

Vernacular names
English : Prairie massasauga
French : Crotale nain des prairies

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

Identification
Adults can grow up to 91 cm but are more often close to 60 cm in length. Large triangular head. Global coloration is grey to light beige with irregular brown blotches, edged with black. Dark brown band from eye to side of head.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in central and central-western USA, from south Nebraska to Oklahoma and Texas, south to North Mexico. Lives in lowland grasslands, open woodlands and rocky hillsides.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN (as S. catenatus)
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species has yet to be assessed on its own but seems to be at least locally common within its fairly large range. Locally threatened by persecution.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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