(a) Ancistrodon.

(b) Lachesis.

The second group includes only those snakes the tails of which are terminated by the scaly appendage known as the “rattle.”

These are likewise divided into two genera:—

(c) Sistrurus.

(d) Crotalus.

(a) Ancistrodon.

Usually with 9 shields on the head, or internasals and præfrontals broken up into scales. Body cylindrical: scales smooth or keeled, with apical pits. Tail moderate or short; subcaudals single or in 2 rows.

Fig. 68.—Ancistrodon piscivorus (Water Viper). (After Stejneger.)