Rattlesnakes of Central Texas: What You Need to Know

---

Texas is home to ten species of rattlesnakes, several of which may be found in Central Texas. The most notable include:

• Range: Widespread across Texas, especially common in Central Texas.
• Appearance: Thick-bodied with dark diamond-shaped markings and a distinctive black-and-white tail banding.
• Behavior: Defensive and loud with its rattle; responsible for the majority of snakebites in Texas.
• Habitat: Prefers dry, rocky areas, grasslands, and brush.

• Range: Found primarily in rocky hills and canyon areas of the Edwards Plateau, including parts of Central Texas.
• Appearance: Light gray with darker crossbands, often camouflaged against limestone outcroppings.
• Behavior: Shy and rarely rattles; relies on camouflage to avoid detection.

• Range: Less common, but can be found in parts of East and Central Texas.
• Appearance: Small (15–24 inches), with a gray or reddish body and a thin tail with a tiny rattle.
• Behavior: Not aggressive but still venomous; its small size can make it difficult to detect.

• Range: More common in West and North Texas, but occasionally seen in Central regions.
• Appearance: Tan with oval blotches and a relatively thin body.
• Behavior: Alert and fast-moving; will defend itself if cornered.

Rattlesnakes in Central Texas are typically most active from March through October, especially during early morning and late afternoon when temperatures are moderate. They hibernate during colder months in dens, often with other snakes. In hot summer months, they may become nocturnal.

They feed on small mammals, birds, lizards, and frogs—meaning they’re often drawn toward yards with:

• Rodents or bird feeders
• Woodpiles or brush piles
• Water sources (ponds, leaky hoses, pet bowls)

While rattlesnakes serve an important ecological role by controlling rodent populations, they can pose serious risks near human dwellings:

• Venomous bites can cause severe injury or even death if untreated.
• Pets and livestock are especially vulnerable.
• Snakes may den under homes, sheds, decks, or rock features, making them hard to spot and increasing the chance of surprise encounters.

• Stay calm and back away slowly. Do not attempt to handle or kill the snake.
• Keep children and pets away from the area.
• Call The Wildlife Management Company at 512-364-1523 for safe and professional rattlesnake removal anywhere in Austin, Marble Falls, Llano, Johnson City, Fredericksburg, Bee Cave, Horseshoe Bay, Burnet, or surrounding areas.

Our team of professional wildlife biologists uses a combination of traditional tracking and modern tools to:

• Safely locate and remove rattlesnakes
• Identify dens and hiding spots
• Offer habitat modification and exclusion strategies
• Educate homeowners on prevention

All removals are done safely, humanely, and in compliance with Texas law.

• The rattle is made of keratin (like your fingernails) and adds a segment each time the snake sheds its skin.
• A rattlesnake can strike up to two-thirds of its body length in an instant.
• Despite their reputation, rattlesnakes typically avoid confrontation and strike only in defense.

If you think you have a rattlesnake on your property—or want to take preventive steps—call The Wildlife Management Company at 512-364-1523. We’re Central Texas’ trusted experts for wildlife removal and rattlesnake control.