How to tell the difference between a Mojave Rattlesnake and a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Take the quiz: Can you tell the difference? Western Diamondback or Mojave Rattlesnake

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According to search phrase analytics of our Arizona snake identification page, and the comments in our Arizona snake identification Facebook group, this topic stands out. It's tough to answer concisely, and even harder to find answers that will serve all levels of snake observer.

In response, we've created a video that is our best response to the question. It's long but comprehensive. It's not just learning how to look at features, but addresses topics that cause confusion and cognitive bias that can really get in the way when seriously trying to learn to identify rattlesnakes. This video will walk you through the best way look at key features with a logical approach to differentiate between Mojave Rattlesnakes and Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.

What can you do? "Count the scales on the head", someone says ... but how useful is that in real-life situations? "Tail bands look different", another comment will read ... compared to what? There are thousands of photographs of both species online, but telling the difference between a Mojave Rattlesnake and a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake is still a point of confusion.

In the video, we end with the mention of a short quiz you can take to see how well you know the difference between Mojave and Western Diamondback rattlesnakes. It's 40 images, randomly selected and ordered, with 1 point per correct answer. When you're done, you'll see a link to check your score, and your answers. However, we encourage you to skip looking at which ones you got right or wrong, so that you can continue to improve your identification skills by taking the test again.