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We report on 14 western diamond-backed rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) that were located at or near communal-type dens in late winter and observed to harvest and consume water from rain, sleet, and snow. Observations occurred on 11 and 19 March 2006, and were conducted at two sites in the Sonoran Desert of southern Arizona. On both days, weather conditions were inclement, with near-freezing (<= 5 degrees C) ambient air temperatures, rain mixed with sleet or snow, gusty winds, and 100% cloud cover. Individuals involved in harvesting water from their bodies assumed stereotypic postures that were similar to those reported in other species of rattlesnakes. We suggest that protracted extreme drought (e.g., 175 days without precipitation from mid-September to early March) coincident with record-high temperatures during this period contributed to dehydration in the populations of C. alrox studied. Consequently, despite harsh weather, benefits of harvesting water from rain, sleet, or snow possibly overrode risks of predation and other factors.