Timber Rattlesnake (Canebrake Rattlesnake)
Crotalus horridus • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Crotalus, Species: horridus
Eastern United States, from southern New Hampshire to north Florida, and west to southeastern Nebraska and east Texas.
Look up Timber Rattlesnake (Canebrake Rattlesnake) in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Highly Venomous (Solenoglyphous - large, folding frontal fangs)
Danger Level
Extremely Dangerous; large size, high venom yield, and potential for severe systemic effects make this one of North America's most dangerous snakes.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Crotalus, Species: horridus
Conservation
IUCN Least Concern (though many northern states list it as Endangered, Threatened, or of Special Concern due to habitat loss and persecution).
Physical Description
Large, thick-bodied snake with dark brown or black crossbands (often chevron-shaped) on a gray, tan, or yellowish background. Features a broad, triangular head, heat-sensing pits, vertical pupils, and a black tail terminating in a segmentated rattle.
Size & Dimensions
Typically 91–152 cm (36–60 in) in length. Maximum recorded is 189 cm (74.5 in). This specimen appears to be an adult.
Habitat
Found in deciduous forests in rugged terrain, rocky outcrops, and agricultural areas. Also inhabits lowland cane thickets or swamps (southern populations).
Behavior & Temperament
Generally shy and avoids conflict, relying on crypsis. However, it will rattle loudly and strike if provoked or stepped on. Primarily crepuscular or nocturnal during hot months.
Diet & Feeding
Active forager and ambush predator primarily targeting small mammals (squirrels, chipmunks, mice), but also consumes birds and occasionally other snakes.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Late summer reproduction with litter sizes typically between 5 and 20; females usually reproduce every 2-3 years.
Venom Profile
Variable; often complex hemotoxic/cytotoxic components causing tissue damage and coagulopathy, but some populations possess Type A venom which is highly neurotoxic.
Look-alikes
Agkistrodon contortrix (Copperhead) lacks a rattle and has hourglass patterns; Crotalus adamanteus (Eastern Diamondback) has diamond markings instead of chevrons.
Conservation Status
IUCN Least Concern (though many northern states list it as Endangered, Threatened, or of Special Concern due to habitat loss and persecution).
Cultural Significance
Iconic symbol of the American colonies (Gadsden flag 'Don't Tread on Me'). Plays a vital role in controlling rodent populations in forest ecosystems.
Notable Features
Distinctive black tail (giving it the name 'velvet-tail' in some regions) and the characteristic rattle made of keratin segments used as a warning signal.