What percentage of the *Crotalus atrox*'s intake by weight was shown to be small mammals in a comprehensive Texas study?
Answer
Nearly 95%
Mammals represent the overwhelmingly dominant component of the Western Diamondback's diet throughout its range, which is a key indicator of its ecological role in controlling rodent populations. Specific data derived from research conducted in Texas quantifies this dietary reliance. That comprehensive study revealed that small mammals alone constituted almost ninety-five percent of the total weight consumed by the snakes studied. While lizards and birds are occasionally consumed, and insects might be incidental, the primary energetic requirement of the species is met almost entirely through rodents, kangaroo rats, gophers, and rabbits.
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