Comment on FR Doc # 2012-11230

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is a beautiful and unique part of the Florida and southeastern ecology and landscape. Throughout my life, I have enjoyed the occassional sighting of an Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake while hiking or horseback riding in natural areas in northeast Florida. However, the last time that I saw this snake was in 2002 in the Jennings State Forest near my home. Now, there is reason for concern that the species is in severe decline. The decline in this snake, probably caused by drought, destruction of habitat, and predation by humans, is reason for concern for mself and other concerned citizens. The snake could be threatened with extinction in it's native habitat without increased protections now. The adverse pressures on the snake will only increase, but could be mitigated by listing the snake as a threatened species. I urge you to take action to protect the further decline of the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake. I urge you to list the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake as a threatened species. Please contact me with any questions or comments on my position at the address or email provided.