What Do Rattlesnakes Eat?

Rattlesnakes are carnivorous predators that primarily feed on small animals, using their heat-sensing pits, camouflage, and ambush hunting tactics to locate and strike prey. Their diet varies depending on the species, habitat, and availability of prey, but it typically includes:

Rodents and Small Mammals

Rodents and small mammals are the primary food source for most adult rattlesnakes. Common prey includes:

Mice
Rats
Squirrels
Rabbits
Small gophers

Rattlesnakes play a vital ecological role by helping control these populations.

Birds and Bird Eggs

Though less common, rattlesnakes may also consume:

Ground-nesting birds
Nestlings or fledglings
Occasionally bird eggs

This occurs especially in areas where bird nests are accessible, such as deserts or shrublands.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Some species or juveniles may prey on:

Lizards (especially fence lizards and skinks)
Frogs and toads
Occasionally small snakes (including other rattlesnakes in rare cases)

Insects and Invertebrates (Primarily for Juveniles)

Very young rattlesnakes, due to their smaller size and developing venom systems, may feed on:

Large insects (like grasshoppers or beetles)
Centipedes

Hunting and Feeding Behavior

Ambush Predators: Rattlesnakes often lie in wait near rodent burrows or animal trails, using camouflage to remain hidden.
Venom Use: They strike quickly and inject venom that immobilizes and begins to digest the prey.
Swallowing Whole: Once the prey is subdued, the snake uses its flexible jaw to swallow it whole, head first.
Feeding Frequency: Rattlesnakes don’t eat often. Adults may only eat once every few weeks or even months, depending on the size of the meal and environmental conditions.

Rattlesnakes are opportunistic feeders that help maintain ecological balance by controlling populations of small mammals, birds, and other reptiles. Their specific diet can vary widely by age, region, and season, but their primary prey consists of warm-blooded animals like rodents and birds.