Characteristics Similar in all respects to other crotalids except it has no rattles. Apparently an inheritable defect in the matrix causes the species to retain only the keratin surrounding the matrix and nothing else. As new segments are grown, they are cast off when the snake sheds. Predators Man, king snakes, racers, whip snakes, coyotes, foxes, wildcats, badgers, and birds of prey. Miscellaneous Rattlers shed their skin 3 or 4 times per year on average, so it is unusual to see more than 12 rattles.
Rattlers can climb trees.
They are also good swimmers. The fangs can be folded back inside a skin fold to protect them when their mouth is closed. The venom in most crotalus is hemotoxic. The rattlesanke is the only venomous snake in Utah. There are 7 species in the state.