Timber Rattlesnake

The timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is a venomous pit viper and the only rattlesnake species in most of the populous Northeastern United States. It is the largest venomous snake in Pennsylvania.

Size: These rattlesnakes range in length from three to four and a half feet and may weigh up to two pounds.

Life Span: The lifespan of the Timber Rattlesnake is 22 to 30 years.

Color: This snake varies in coloration, with bands of color that are different on snakes found in different regions.

Continent: North America

Range: United States including Minnesota and Southern Maine all the way to south to East Texas and North Florida. Additionally, the timber rattlesnake can also be found in Ontario, Canada.

Habitat: The timber rattlesnake is found in the forested rocky hills of many states throughout the eastern United States and also swamps. There is an especially high density of timber rattlesnakes in the Appalachian Mountains.

Food: This rattlesnake eats small mammals, especially mice, rats, squirrels, and rabbits. Sometimes it will even kill birds. To eat, the snake bites its victim, injecting its venom. It then waits until the prey is dead before swallowing it whole.

Reproduction: Every three or four years, in the early spring these rattlesnakes mate. About 10 young are born in late summer or early fall with the average length of 11-13 inches.

Fun Facts: Although they rarely attack humans, these rattlesnakes are venomous and very dangerous.

Conservation: These snakes are being carefully monitored due to habitat destruction, snake hunting, and commercial collection that may threaten the species.