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a light tan or yellowish-brown rattlesnake coiled tightly in a defensive or resting position on a patch of dusty, light-colored soil. The snake's head is resting in the center of the coils, facing directly toward the viewer, with its prominent scales and small eyes visible. The background consists of larger dark brown rocks and debris, suggesting a dry, rocky habitat.

Sidewinder

Common Name:
Sidewinder
Scientific Name:
Crotalus cerastes
Habitats:
  • Desert
  • Rocky Areas
  • Shrubland
Length:
18 in
Life Span:
20 yrs
Number of Young:
8-12 eggs
Weight:
8 oz
About:

Did you know female sidewinders are much larger than males? Learn more about sidewinders.

Care & Wellness:

For the sidewinder, we provide an annual light cycle that replicates the seasonal changes in daylight in the wild. The nocturnal hallway in Desert is also on a reverse light cycle meaning it is nighttime in the hall during the day.

Behavior:
  • Often sit just under the sand, waiting to ambush prey.
  • Named for their "sidewinding" form of locomotion.
  • Sidewinders often bite and release venom into their prey, and then track it by scent.
Endangered Status
  • Least Concern (LC)
Fun Facts:
  • The track they leave in the sand resembles the letter "J" and the bottom of the J indicates travel direction.
  • Their activity decreases in the cooler winter months.
  • Bites from sidewinders are rarely fatal to humans, but should be attended to immediately.
  • Females are much larger than males.
A close-up of a Sidewinder rattlesnake coiled among rocks and dry debris. The snake has a mottled tan and brown pattern and its distinctive supraocular scales (horn-like projections) are visible above its eyes.

Related Resources

A wide exterior shot showcases the large, glass-domed Desert exhibit building under a bright blue sky with wispy clouds. In front of the building, a landscaped area features various desert plants like cacti and succulents, along with rocks. A paved pathway curves in the foreground, and a wooden bench is visible on the right.
The Desert Habitat

The Desert is a glass-domed building designed to recreate an arid, colorful desert. Walk among free-flight birds, towering saguaros and watch the racing roadrunners.