Sidewinder

Crotalus cerastes

Scientific Name

Sidewinder:  
Crotalus cerastes

Distribution and Habitat

Geographic Range

Located primarily in the southwestern region of the United States, the Sidewinder can be found in parts of eastern California, western Arizona, and southwestern Utah.

Natural Habitat

Sidewinders can be found residing in arid regions such as rocky hillsides as well as desert sand dunes.

Physical Characteristics

  • Reaching upwards of 32 in. in length, Mojave desert sidewinders are typically pale in color to better help camouflage themselves. Additionally, this species contains horn-like scales above their eyelids, making identification an easy process.

Quick Facts

  1. There are 3 subspecies of Sidewinder. Mojave desert (cerastes), Sonoran desert (cercobombus), and Colorado desert (laterorepens).

  2. Mojave desert sidewinder females are typically larger than males.

Exhibit

Amphibian and Reptile Center

Conservation Status

Least Concern: The Sidewinder is common or abundant and is likely to survive in the wild.

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Diet

Carnivore

Primarily desert rodents and lizards to make up their diet.