EASTERN DIAMOND BACK RATTLESNAKE
Florida is home to six venomous species of snakes. The eastern diamond back is the largest of the rattlesnake species. In Florida it is born between August and November, which is also the breeding season. At birth, it is anywhere from 11" to 16" in length, and possesses enough venom to deliver a fatal bite to a grown man. It's young remain as a group for several days after birth, and have been known to be protected vigorously by the mother. These snakes frequently shelter by tunneling in gopher and tortoise burrows, emerging in the early morning or afternoon to bask. Like most rattlesnakes, this species is terrestrial and not adept at climbing. However, they have on occasion been reported in bushes and trees, apparently in search of prey.