Danger in the desert

With the return of warm weather here in central Arizona Mother Nature has stirred from her winter slumber and with that some of her reptilian friends have become active.
This well camouflaged fellow was sunning itself along the dirt road through the back country in Stanton Arizona. Fortunately it was off to the side and I would have walked right by if it hadn't buzzed noisily as I passed.

It was anice fat Western Diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) which, while relatively common here in the Southwest, usually manages to remain hidden and harmless to observant humans.
Fortunately they will most often announce their presence with the characteristic "rattle" which sounded more like a buzz with this one and I was far enough away so as not to warrant a strike.
After a bit more buzzing he escaped into the rocky brush and we parted ways.
So while awaiting danger, the rattlesnake eats many rodents and thus can serve as a useful (yet dangerous) predator.
So if you're out in this environment as the weather begins to warm watch your step for you never know if you might be sharing space with one of the creatures.