Timber Rattlesnake
Crotalus horridus • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Crotalus, Species: C. horridus
Eastern and central United States, from southern New Hampshire to north Florida, and west to southeastern Minnesota and central Texas.
Look up Timber Rattlesnake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Crotalus, Species: C. horridus
Conservation
IUCN Least Concern globally, but listed as Endangered or Threatened in many individual northeastern and midwestern U.S. states due to habitat loss and persecution.
Physical Description
Heavy-bodied with keeled scales. Features a wide, triangular head, vertical pupils, and heat-sensing pits. Pattern consists of dark brown or black crossbands or chevrons on a gray, tan, or yellowish background.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen appears to be an adult. Typical adult length ranges from 36 to 60 inches (91-152 cm), with a record length of 74 inches.
Habitat
Primarily deciduous forests and rugged terrain with rocky outcrops. Elevation ranges from sea level to over 6,000 feet. Prefers south-facing slopes for hibernacula.
Diet & Feeding
Ambush predator primarily feeding on small mammals like squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits, as well as occasional birds. Uses venom to immobilize prey.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Females reproduce every 2-6 years, typically in late summer or early fall with a litter size of 5-20 young.
Look-alikes
Confused with the Northern Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon) or Eastern Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum), but distinguished by the rattles, heat pits, and vertical pupils.
Conservation Status
IUCN Least Concern globally, but listed as Endangered or Threatened in many individual northeastern and midwestern U.S. states due to habitat loss and persecution.
Cultural Significance
Iconic in North American history; featured on the 'Gadsden Flag' (Don't Tread on Me). Important ecological role as an apex predator of rodents.
Notable Features
Features a multi-segmented rattle composed of keratin that produces a distinctive warning sound. Possesses sophisticated strike-and-release hunting behavior.