What distinct feature is often present on juvenile *Crotalus molossus* but fades in adults?
Answer
A noticeable reddish or rust-colored stripe down the dorsal center
Juvenile Black-tailed Rattlesnakes possess a key identification marker that helps distinguish them from adults and other species. Young snakes frequently display a clear, longitudinal stripe running down the center of their dorsal surface, which is described as being reddish or rust-colored. This specific marking is not typically retained by older, mature specimens, whose body patterns become obscured by darker ground colors or increased mottling. Recognizing this youthful trait, along with the fact that their tail tips are black but may still show banding immediately before the rattle, is useful for field identification.
Related Questions
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