Rare ‘Funky-Looking Diamondback’ Discovered in Scottsdale Backyard

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — A unique diamondback rattlesnake has caught the attention of many after being discovered in a Scottsdale backyard. This snake features a striking “pattern mutation” that deviates significantly from the typical appearance of its species.

Rattlesnake Solutions, an organization dedicated to educating the public about snakes and safely relocating them, responded to the unusual call. Their social media posts reveal the snake’s distinctive scaly patterns, which appear more curved and circular—akin to small mushrooms—rather than the classic diamond shapes familiar to many Arizonans.

In their Instagram update, Rattlesnake Solutions remarked, “In the many thousands of Diamondbacks we’ve seen over the years, this is a first.” The unusual appearance has sparked curiosity and amazement among online viewers.

The organization speculates that this may simply be a “funky-looking diamondback,” rather than a hybrid resulting from the mating of two different species. Reports of other rare diamondback patterns have emerged in the past; for instance, a snake devoid of patterns was found near Austin a few years ago, and another exhibited dark brown stripes in Texas in the late 1960s, according to the Kansas Academy of Science.

In 2020, a biologist documented a “patternless” eastern diamondback in Florida, further highlighting the extent of variations within this species. The discovery in Scottsdale adds another layer to the intrigue surrounding rattlesnakes.

This remarkable find serves as a reminder of the complexity within nature and the unexpected surprises it can hold. Rattlesnake Solutions continues to encourage awareness and respect for these fascinating reptiles.