Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake - Don't Tread on Me!

Watch your step when you walk on a nature trail in Florida.

I crossed paths with this beauty one early morning, slithering across the trail.

I've encountered Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnakes before, so I knew to be careful considering they are venomous.

Their markings are so amazing, a beautiful marbeled jigsaw puzzle with a brilliant copper line across the top.

This little baby was only about a foot long, yet so incredibly beautiful.

We spent some time together and then he began to curl up into classic rattlesnake position.

I love this last close up - he was watching me much more carefully than I realized. I considered using my macro lens, but I'm not quite that brave or stupid.

All pictures taken by @rawruss with a Nikon D3400 w/ 70 to 300mm lens. Don't tread on me, baby.