The pits are so sensitive they can determine the size of the warm-blooded animal and can even detect prey in complete darkness. Pit Vipers are snakes that have two pits under their nostrils to detect heat, thus enabling the rattlesnake to hunt warm-blooded prey. The pits are so sensitive they can determine the size of the warm-blooded animal and can even detect prey in complete darkness. There are 16 distinct varieties and numerous subspecies of rattlesnake. The coloring and pattern of the snake's skin is helpful when trying to identify the Rattlesnakes species.
Size is another factor in determining the age and species of the snake.
The geographic location will also help determine the species since, only a number of rattlesnake species are found in specific regions. Diamond patterns, colors, speckles, stripes near the face or tail and numerous other details help determine the specific species of a Rattlesnake.