Timber Rattlesnake
Crotalus horridus
A heavy-bodied woodland rattlesnake of the eastern United States, often showing dark chevron banding and a black tail.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.5 m (3-5 ft)
- Range
- Eastern United States, from New England to the Gulf Coast and west to parts of the Midwest
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Overview
The Timber Rattlesnake is a widespread but increasingly localized rattlesnake of eastern North American forests, historically found across much of the eastern United States. Populations have declined in many areas due to habitat loss and historic persecution, leading to protected status in several states.
It is known for its variable coloration, ranging from yellowish or tan phases to darker, almost black individuals, along with a characteristically dark tail.
How to identify it
- Background color ranging from yellow, tan, or gray to nearly black, with dark brown or black chevron-shaped crossbands
- Tail typically solid black, especially prominent in contrast to the rest of the body
- Heavy body with a broad, triangular head distinct from the neck
- Vertically elliptical pupils and heat-sensing facial pits
- Some populations show a reddish-brown dorsal stripe running down the back
- Distinguished from diamondback rattlesnakes by chevron-shaped (rather than diamond-shaped) crossbands and characteristic black tail
Habitat & range
Found in deciduous forests, rocky ridges, and forested wetlands (canebrakes) across the eastern United States, often denning communally in rocky outcrops for winter hibernation in northern parts of its range.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily active from spring through fall, becoming more nocturnal during hot summer months. An ambush predator that hunts rodents and other small mammals by lying in wait along fallen logs or trails. Viviparous, with females often reproducing only once every two to three years. Generally calm and reluctant to bite, relying on camouflage and its rattle as first lines of defense.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Timber Rattlesnake venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous pit viper, though it is generally shy and reluctant to bite.
How can you identify a Timber Rattlesnake?
By its dark chevron-shaped crossbands, variable base color, and characteristic solid black tail.
Where does the Timber Rattlesnake live?
In forests and rocky terrain across much of the eastern United States.
How often do Timber Rattlesnakes reproduce?
Females typically reproduce only once every two to three years due to the energy demands of live birth.
Timber Rattlesnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Timber Rattlesnake.
Timber Rattlesnake identified by the community
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