Timber Rattlesnake
Crotalus horridus • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Crotalus, Species: C. horridus
Eastern and central North America, ranging from southern New Hampshire southward to northern Florida, and westward to eastern Texas and eastern Nebraska.
Look up Timber Rattlesnake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Viperidae, Subfamily: Crotalinae, Genus: Crotalus, Species: C. horridus
Conservation
Listed as Least Concern globally by the IUCN Red List, though many regional populations face threats from habitat fragmentation, intentional killing, and collection for the pet trade.
Physical Description
Heavy-bodied snake with distinct crossbands or chevron patterns of dark brown or black on a yellowish-brown or grayish background, a distinct triangular head, vertical pupils, and heavily keeled dorsal scales.
Size & Dimensions
Estimated specimen length is approximately 90 cm to 120 cm; typical adult length ranges from 90 to 150 cm, with maximum recorded lengths reaching up to 189 cm.
Habitat
Deciduous forests, rugged terrain with rocky outcroppings and ledges for basking and denning, river valleys, and agricultural edges, ranging from sea level up to 1,500 meters elevation.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily feeds on small mammals such as mice, voles, rats, squirrels, and occasionally birds. Employs a sit-and-wait ambush hunting strategy.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young), with females typically producing litters of 5 to 14 young every 2 to 3 years. Mating usually occurs in late summer or autumn, with parturition the following summer.
Look-alikes
Frequently confused with the Eastern Massasauga, Pigmy Rattlesnake, and non-venomous species like the Eastern Foxsnake or Black Rat Snake, which lack rattles and have different head shapes and scale patterns.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern globally by the IUCN Red List, though many regional populations face threats from habitat fragmentation, intentional killing, and collection for the pet trade.
Cultural Significance
Historically featured on the Gadsden flag ('Don't Tread on Me') during the American Revolution and plays an important role in forest ecosystems by controlling small mammal populations.
Notable Features
Features a prominent caudal rattle used as a warning signal, specialized heat-sensing pit organs located between the eye and nostril, and hinged front fangs that fold back against the roof of the mouth when closed.