How to Identify a Timber Rattlesnake

Timber rattlesnakes, or Crotalus horridus, are an endangered species of rattlesnake native to the United States. Their habitat extends from New Hampshire, through the Appalachian Mountains. They have been spotted as far south as northern Georgia and as far west as southwest Wisconsin and northeastern Texas. They are likely found in deciduous forests and rugged terrain.^{[1]XResearch source} Although venomous, timber rattlesnakes are considered docile and usually only bite as a last resort.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Identifying Timber Rattlesnakes

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1
Recognize color differences. The physical color of a timber rattlesnake can vary widely depending on its area.^{[2]XResearch source} For example, they can have many different color variations, called color morphs, including:
- Black morph -- background of gray with a rich black pattern.
- Yellow morph -- background of tan with a sulfur yellow pattern.
- Combination morph - Western and southern populations can have a mixture of black and yellow morphs.
2
Notice general patterns. In general, a timber rattlesnake can be identified as having a wide head and narrow neck.
- Their eyes are yellow, with elliptical pupils.
- They have V or W-shaped crossbar markings, which create a distinct pattern across its back.^{[3]XResearch source}
- They have a distinctive rattler on its tail made up of special scales.
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3
Note size. The record length of a timber rattlesnake is 75.6 inches (189.2 cm)! These are large snakes, generally ranging from 36-60 inches (90-152 cm) in length and between 1.5-3lbs (.68-1.3 kilos).
- They are the third-largest venomous snake in the United States.
- Baby rattlers are generally 1 foot (30cm) at birth. Unlike a lot of other snakes, timber rattlesnakes are born alive and not hatched from eggs.^{[4]XResearch source}
Timber rattlesnakes are a member of the pit viper family and have noticeable facial pits located on the side of its head between the eye and the nostril. Sensitive to radiant heat, these pits help the snake detect prey.
Timber rattlesnakes have specially adapted scales on their tails, which they shake to make a distinctive rattle sound. This is a warning to predators to stay away!
6
Learn when these snakes are active. They are typically nocturnal and actively hunt at night. You may find them during the day because of thermoregulation, or the warming of its core temperature.
- Snakes that thermoregulate can often be found sunning themselves on rocks or in direct sunlight. While they are not as active during the day, they can still be found under these conditions.
7
Recognize similar-looking snakes. A few snakes share similar markings or coloration as the timber rattlesnake. Learn about local snakes that can be easily confused with the timber rattler.
- Eastern milk snake -- Harmless to humans, the eastern milkshake shares a similar V or W pattern as the timber rattler. It, however, has a checkerboard pattern on its belly. It lacks the distinct pits on the side of the head. This snake is most often confused with the timber rattlesnake as it, despite not having rattle scales, shakes its tail to warn off predators.
- Common garter snake -- These common backyard snakes may share similar coloring of the timber rattlesnake, but lacks its size and distinctive rattle. Garter snakes sometimes have color stripes of scales (rather than the distinctive V or W pattern). This is a harmless snake; however, just like other wild animals, should be left alone if encountered.^{[5]XResearch source}
- Eastern hog-nosed snake -- This non-venomous snake shares similar color variations as a timber rattlesnake, but is distinctive for its upturned nose and its square blocks of color (usually black) along its back. They reach about 46inches (115cm) and share the same habitat as the timber rattler.^{[6]XResearch source}

Part 2

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Recognizing Habitat

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1
Recognize den areas. Timber rattlesnakes will hibernate in rocky ledges. Rocky outcrops with crevices and near forest openings are considered prime locations. You may find dozens of timber rattlesnakes hibernating in a single area.
- In general, hibernation occurs between the first frost and April.
2
Look for swampy areas. In more southern and western locations, like Texas, timber rattlesnakes can be found in swampy areas and thickets.^{[7]XResearch source}
- Cut timber, tree stumps, and branches are great hiding spots for these rattlers.
In the more eastern habitat, timber rattlers can be found in more rocky outcroppings near forests. For example, the forest and trails of the Appalachian mountain chain make a prime habitat for the timber rattler.
4
Understand habitable biomes. Across all habitats, timber rattlesnakes can be found in two primary biomes: mountains and forests.^{[8]XResearch source}
- These biomes share a general climate including temperate weather and terrestrial land.

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Warnings

Do not approach, pick up, or kill any snake you come across. Intentionally approaching or handling these snakes is the cause of most reported bites and injuries.^{[9]XResearch source}
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These snakes are endangered. Killing one can result in a fine or penalty.
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