Department of Earth and Biological Sciences
Faculty: William K. Hayes
Laboratory of behavioral ecology and conservation
Eric A. Dugan (PhD, in progress)
"Niche partitioning and ecology of two sympatric rattlesnakes in southern California."
Contact
Department of Earth and Biological Sciences
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA 92350 USA
Phone: (909) 558-4300 ext. 48909 or (909) 558-4530
Fax: (909) 558-0259
Email: EDugan1@hotmail.com
Checking up on CR-12. Relying on the signal from a surgically implanted radiotransmitter, Eric has followed this male Red Diamond Rattlesnake (Crotalus ruber) for two years now. This particular snake has a very small range, comprised of several cactus patches. Photograph: Alex Figueroa.
Always fascinated by rattlesnakes, Eric found the perfect project and ideal study site to suit his interests. Not far from his home, Chino Hills State Park hosts two species of rattlesnake that live, essentially, in the same habitats. However, the extent to which these species utilize each habitat appears to vary significantly. Relying on radiotelemetry to relocate his subjects, Eric has learned that Red Diamond Rattlesnakes (Crotalus ruber) largely remain within or close to patches of prickly pear cactus (genus Opuntia), whereas the more numerous Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (C. helleri) prefer grassland and riparian habitat. Even so, both prefer to winter individually within the prickly pear cactus patches.
To learn more details about his study, go to Research on Free-ranging Southern California Rattlesnakes (with photographs).