Zoo Miami announced the birth of an Aruba Island rattlesnake, one of the rarest snakes in the world. Born Aug. 1, the baby marks the first successful birth of this critically endangered species in Zoo Miami history. Fewer than 250 individuals are estimated to remain in the wild.
The parents are Ruben, a 16-year-old male born at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, and Calypso, a 9-year-old female born at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. This is the first offspring for both.
Found only on the island of Aruba, these rattlesnakes live in thorn scrub and cactus habitat. Unlike many reptiles, Aruba Island rattlesnakes give birth to live young, and the babies are venomous from birth.
Conservation Note: Aruba Island rattlesnakes are managed under the AZA Species Survival Plan. Habitat loss, development and invasive species continue to threaten the species.
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