Desert Massasauga

Desert Massasaugas (Sistrurus catenatus edwardsii) are reptiles of the Viperidae family that measure 1.5 to 2.5 feet in length and are known for their heavy bodies that are marked with dark brown blotches across their spines. They have crossbands that appear on the tail and are usually outlined in black with a rattle on their tail. Two stripes going down to the neck area make it easy to spot them from others. They possess elliptical pupils, and just as other pit vipers do, they enjoy using their heat-sensing nostril pits.