Pygmy Rattlesnakes are one of the most common venomous snakes residents can encounter. They are the smallest of the four venomous species. Sizes vary but they rarely exceed 20” in length. These little guys can be found in many different environments. They can even be found in neighborhoods, favoring areas such as brush piles or garden areas. When threatened, they will raise their head up and can be poised to strike. Pygmy rattlesnakes do have a rattle. It is very small and can rarely be heard. The pygmy rattlesnake is grayish in color and has irregular shaped blotches running down its body. This tiny pit viper has a triangular shaped head, but due to its small size it can be difficult to see. Visit http://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/snakes/snakebiteprevention.shtml for information on venomous snakes and http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/uw229 on Recognizing Florida’s Venomous Snakes.

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