The Mojave Rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus) is a venomous pit viper species found in the deserts of the southwestern United States and central Mexico. It is perhaps best known for its potent venom. The venom of the Mojave Rattler contains a powerful neurotoxin component that can paralyze prey. Some studies contest that young snakes may be capable of injecting less venom, and the high toxicity of their bite comes from a variation in their venom which causes it to have a more potent concentration than in their adult counterparts.

And there's nothing quite like hearing the rattle to make your sphincter loosen! I heard it descending from a boulder at Ibex in Utah.

Was this actually under hero roof when you were climbing?? Holy S**t!Apparently rattlers hibernate behind the Ironman (near hero roof) and underneath Stained Glass!! Scary...!! Was there for a while last year about this time but didnt see any thankfully.. tho it must've been hot there recently? basin mountain was covered in snow this time last year..there's very little snow on it in your pics.. guess the heat has brought 'em out!

It was on the ground on the right hand side of Hero Roof - I had a very Indiana Jones moment - 'Snakes, I hate snakes…'. Oh well, motivation - LOL. Yes, it has been 10 degrees F warmer here than usual, which I guess brought them out earlier.

Holy crap....and I thought I was being a big nancy just being a few feet away never mind one spotting you!