The Prairie Rattlesnake is found in thirty states in the eastern part of the US. Its range is from southern Maine to northern Florida , stretching as far west as Minnesota. The highest density of the Prairie Rattlesnakes is in the Appalachian Mountains.
Risks to the Species
Populations of Prairie Rattlesnakes are rapidly being depleted across the species range. The main causes are habitat destruction, snake hunting, and commercial collection for the pet trade. Several states have passed laws protecting the Prairie Rattlesnake, but it is not on the threatened species list in many states. The species is not in serious danger but is headed in that direction unless efforts are made to protect it.
The main food source for the Prairie Rattlesnake is small mammals, in particular mice, rats, squirrels, and rabbits. Birds are also sometimes killed.
Breeding of the Species
Prairie Rattlesnakes are ovoviviparous, meaning that the eggs are incubated and hatched within the female and she gives birth to live precocial young.
