Classification:

• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Reptilia
• Order: Squamata
• Genus: Crotalus

Comments:

1. 1. Crotalus durissus is commonly called rattle snake.
2. 2. Body is very elongated reaching a length of about two and half meters and divided into head, neck, trunk and tail.
3. 3. The general color is grey brown with dark bands on the body forming a handsome pattern.
4. 4. Head is distinct from the neck and bears mouth, nostrils and eyes without eyelids.Tympanum is absent.
5. 5. The upper surface of the head is covered with small scales. Presence of two pairs of inter-nasals.
6. 6. Maxillary bones contain two erectile fangs (one on each maxillary) and remain folded back when not in use.
7. 7. Presence of a rattle at the end of the tail. Rattle is formed by the union of 10-12 hollow segments of dry horny skin.
8. 8. Rattle cause a noise which is useful to the snake as an instrument of warning of any approaching the enemy.
9. 9. Deadly poisonous.
10. 10. Crotalus is distributed in Mexico and North America.

Source:

1. Practical Zoology Vertebrates by S.S.Lal. 2. A Manual of Practical Zoology Chordates by Dr. P.S. Verma.