What prey forms the foundation of the adult Western Rattlesnake's diet across most distribution?
Answer
Small mammals, including mice, voles, gophers, and rats
The foundation of the adult Western Rattlesnake's diet is unequivocally small mammals. These creatures represent the most energetically rewarding and consistent food source available across the vast majority of the snake's distribution range, which extends from British Columbia down through the Western United States. Specific examples frequently cited as staples include deer mice, common mice, voles, gophers, and rats. While larger mammals like ground squirrels may be incorporated in certain regions, the primary, consistent cornerstone of caloric intake for mature individuals remains the small, furry rodent population.
Related Questions
What prey forms the foundation of the adult Western Rattlesnake's diet across most distribution?Which prey item is juvenile *C. oreganus* disproportionately likely to consume?What primary method does the Western Rattlesnake use to secure prey?After striking prey, what cues does the Western Rattlesnake use to track the animal?What significant ecological service does the Western Rattlesnake provide by consuming small mammals?Which prey item heavily features in drier, inland California diets versus cooler British Columbia diets?What physical state follows the consumption of a substantial meal for *Crotalus oreganus*?Why are juvenile Western Rattlesnakes initially concentrated on smaller ectotherms?Which groups of prey are generally considered opportunistic rather than a dietary cornerstone for *Crotalus oreganus*?What consequence is noted when *Crotalus oreganus* populations are removed from a local area?