Crotalus catalinensis
Overview
The Santa Catalina rattlesnake is a species of pit viper endemic to Isla Santa Catalina in the Gulf of California just off the east coast of the state of Baja California Sur, Mexico. Like all other pit vipers, it is venomous. No subspecies are currently recognized.
A relatively small and slender species, its most distinctive characteristic is that it lacks a rattle. They are also a generally nocturnal species. Though the species is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, there are few efforts for the snake's conservation.
The Santa Catalina Island rattlesnake faces severe threats from its extremely restricted range on a single 194-square-kilometer island off Baja California. Introduced feral goats have degraded native vegetation communities that the species depends on, while cats pose a direct predation threat to juveniles. Climate change and potential sea level rise threaten the limited suitable habitat, and the tiny population size makes the species vulnerable to stochastic events and genetic bottlenecks.
Habitat
Endemic to Santa Catalina Island in the Gulf of California, this rattlesnake inhabits desert scrub, rocky slopes, and cactus-dominated areas from sea level to the island's highest elevations. The species shows preference for areas with dense vegetation cover and rocky outcrops that provide shelter and hunting opportunities.
Other threatened species in VIPERIDAE
Threatened in Mexico
Frequently asked questions
Why is Crotalus catalinensis classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Crotalus catalinensis live?
What are the main threats to Crotalus catalinensis?
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