Crotalus cerastes
17 inches to about 32 inches in length
Light grey to a pale tan or light brown color. Note: The ones I have seen in Southern California are all a tan or light brown in color.
They have a triangle-shaped horn over each eye.
These rattlesnakes are somewhat less common than other species. They are found mostly in sandy or loose gravel areas. They usually breed in the early spring producing 5 to 18 young snakes. They are not very aggressive and usually try to get away when approached by humans. They have a most unique way of locomotion which gave rise to their common name, sidewinders. When they move, they push their curved body forward towards their heads. Then they thrust their heads forward and start the process over again. This method of movement allows the snake to move quickly over loose sand and gravel. It leaves a very distinct "J" shaped pattern along the sand and can be identified by this movement. I have encountered this snake in several areas with either sandy or powdery soil.
REFERENCE: Deserts by James A. MacMahon and Snakes and other Reptiles of the Southwest by Erik D. Stoops and Annette Wright