Santa Cruz County, California

Northern Pacific Rattlesnake

(Crotalus oreganus oreganus), in situ

This little rattlesnake was fast asleep and didn’t wake up as I photographed him.

Rattlesnakes are fascinating creatures that play a vital role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey. As members of the pit viper family, they possess heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils, allowing them to detect the infrared radiation from warm-blooded animals—even in complete darkness. Their iconic rattle, made of keratin segments at the end of their tail, serves as an effective warning signal to potential threats, helping avoid unnecessary conflict. Rattlesnakes also have highly specialized venom that immobilizes prey and begins digestion before the snake even starts eating. Despite their fearsome reputation, rattlesnakes are generally shy and will avoid human contact when given the chance.