T.G. Tanuki's Nature Photos: "Dryhead Slim" 1

"Dryhead Slim" is the name of this 'watch rattler' (can't always have a watch dog, can you?) on the Tecomate Ranch in Starr County, Texas. He is a Texas Diamondback Rattlesnake about 5-6 feet long. (a little less than 2 meters) and about 3-4" in diameter. He was about 4 years old (has 12 rattle segments in his rattle) when this picture was taken, and keeps rats and other small vermin away from the ranch house.