what snakes move sideways
Mojave Desert Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes cerastes) Snakes Around Las Vegas, Wildlife Around Las Vegas. General: Mojave Desert Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes cerastes) are small, but heavy-bodied snakes with broad, triangular-shaped heads and rattles on the tail. Sidewinders can be recognized by the horns above the eyes. The dorsal pattern is dark blotches on a sandy background, and the tail is light with black bands.