Prior to 2018, this species was previously unknown to science. Louse Island speckled rattlesnakes are a smaller, dwarf form of speckled rattlesnakes from the mainland.

They are usually ground-colored, with small grey speckles and around thirty-seven dark bands running horizontally across the body, and five distinct tail bands. It usually has both fewer subcaudal scales and fewer tail bands than its close cousins, however, the easiest identification is that it is the only rattlesnake species native to Louse Island.

Little is known about this species in terms of ecology, diet and venom composure; although it most likely shares a similar niche to other island-endemic species in the C. mitchelli complex.

Fun fact: It's scientific name is derived from the Greek word for “seafarer", due to its presence as a species arising from ancient migrations across water.