Crotalus adamanteus
The eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest of the 32 species of rattlesnake currently recognized. They are large, heavy-bodied snakes with large, broad heads with two light lines on the face.
- Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes average three to six feet (1-2 cm) in length but have been known to reach eight feet (2.25 m).
- Their scales are olive to brown in color with a distinctive pattern of large dark diamond shaped markings with yellow borders.
- The tail is brown or gray banded with dark rings ending in a well-developed rattle.
- They have inch long fangs and heat-detecting pits between the eyes and nostrils.
Digestive system
The esophogus can be as long as half the length of the snake. Most of the digestion occurs by enzymes and gastric juices in the stomach.
Absorption of nutrients occurs in the small intestines. Undigested food is then expelled through the cloaca, along with solidified uric acid from the kidneys and waste from the liver.
Much of the water involved in the digestive process is re-absorbed into the body before the waste passes through the cloaca. This is very important to the snake in maintaining its level of hydration.
Absorption of nutrients occurs in the small intestines. Undigested food is then expelled through the cloaca, along with solidified uric acid from the kidneys and waste from the liver.
Much of the water involved in the digestive process is re-absorbed into the body before the waste passes through the cloaca. This is very important to the snake in maintaining its level of hydration.