Creature Feature: Red Diamond Rattlesnake

A beautiful red rattler I captured while hiking the Anza Borrego Desert with herpetologists from the San Diego Natural History Museum.

Rattlesnakes—they're one of the few remaining animals in Southern California that threaten us.

And yet, these "danger noodles" are some of the most reasonable predators around. They warn us with rattles, attempt to escape, and often deliver dry bites before resorting to envenomation. Don't even get me started on their value for rodent control.

While working at the San Diego Natural History Museum, I interviewed Herpetology Curator, Dr. Brad Hollingsworth, to create a comprehensive guide to San Diego's rattlesnakes.

It's a great way to familiarize yourself with our four local rattler species, understand their role in our ecosystems, and access resources if you ever find one in your home.

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