Scotts Bluff National Monument - Reptiles

The reptiles of Scotts Bluff National Monument probably receive more attention than all the other animal species combined. The reason is obvious. This vertebrate animal class includes snakes, and of the snakes, the western prairie rattlesnake, receives the most attention.

Reptiles and amphibians are commonly referred to as cold-blooded animals. This means that they can not control their body heat, but are susceptible to changes in the air temperature around them. For this reason reptiles cannot be in the direct sun very long on a hot summer’s day without suffering severe bodily damage. Likewise, they may seek out the warm sun on cool days in the early morning or evening to warm up their bodies and become more active. On a hot summer’s day reptiles are most likely to be found underground or in the shade of a rock or shrub. On a cool day they may be found sunning themselves on the asphalt trails or rock surfaces.

Like all the reptiles of the Monument the western prairie rattlesnake is considered common, but not abundant. Research has shown that on average one rattlesnake inhabits each nine acres of prairie. They are opportunist and wait for their prey, mostly rodents, to come to them. The western prairie rattlesnake needs to be respected but not feared. Visitors should stay on the Monument’s asphalt trails to protect themselves from accidentally stepping on any snake, which may be hidden in the prairie grasses. Be observant of your surroundings. If you encounter a rattlesnake on a trail, wait for the timid rattlesnake to crawl away, or simply walk off the trail and around the snake. Most people who are bitten by rattlesnakes in the United States, either never see the snake or actually try to pick it up. Remember all natural features at the Monument are protected. Killing of any animal is strictly prohibited.

There are nine known species of reptiles which have been inventoried at the Monument. They include the western prairie rattlesnake, eastern yellowbellied racer, bull snake, plains garter snake, common garter snake, western painted turtle, western ornate box turtle, spiny softshell turtle, and the short horned lizard.