How does migration behavior in Wyoming contrast with year-round residency in Arizona populations?

Wyoming snakes can migrate over five miles between summer and winter locations, while snakes in Arizona may remain in the same territory year-round

A striking difference in movement ecology is observed across the latitude of the *Crotalus oreganus* distribution, primarily driven by local climate variation. In colder regions, such as Wyoming, where seasonal temperature swings are significant, the snakes must undertake substantial seasonal migrations, sometimes covering distances exceeding five miles between their summer foraging grounds and their established winter hibernacula. Conversely, in warmer, more climatically stable areas like Arizona, the environmental conditions may remain suitable enough throughout the year that individual snakes exhibit territorial fidelity and may remain within the same localized territory continuously, rarely needing to migrate significant distances.