Range: United States, from western Kentucky to eastern Texas
Habitat: Open woodlands; fields near swamps, marshes, ponds
Conservation Status: Endangered in Texas
Scientific Name: Sistrurus miliarius streckeri
Description: This is one of the smallest rattlesnakes in North America, averaging only 15 to 20 inches in length. The tiny rattle makes a buzzing sound that can only be heard from a few feet. Some individuals are very aggressive and will strike furiously, while others seem lethargic and do not even attempt to rattle. Its diet includes small mammals and birds, lizards, insects and frogs, as well as other snakes. This snake is venomous.