Distribution and abundance of the prairie rattlesnake, Crotalus viridis viridis, in Canada

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The prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis viridis) reaches the northern limit of its range in southeastern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan. The dominant limiting factor is likely the presence of a dry steppe climate. But, within this climatic zone, bedrock geology has played an important role in localizing den sites, and indirectly in providing a suitable substrate. With greater human population pressure, and particularly the increased use of irrigation, the range of C. v. viridis has decreased over the past few decades. Prairie rattlesnakes are most abundant in, and near, major river valleys where irrigation is usually not practiced and where suitable den sites are developed.

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ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology