Range
This species is found in the Southern United States that includes Arizona, Western and central Texas, New Mexico, and Onxaca in Mexico.
Habitats
The Western black-tailed rattlesnake can be found in terrestial grasslands, desert areas and high-altitude forested habitats. Crotalus molossus are Carnivorous, feeding on rodents, small mammals, birds, small reptiles. Breeding ocurs in the spring with copulation lasting for hours and ocvirs multiple times over a period of days. A litter layes can be 10-12 young ones but usually an average of 4-6.
Identification
The average length of the Western black-tailed rattlesnake is 30-42 inches in length with the females larger than the makes. The skin color of this species ranges from yellow and olive green to brown and black. The distinguishing feature of Crotalus molossus is its entirely black tail scales. Presence of black band which appears across its eyes and extends diagonally down to the corners of its mouth.
Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians