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Timber Rattler

Timber Rattler

Crotalus horridus

Dangerous Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Animalia
Abundance: Uncommon
Habitat: Forest
Active Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
Activity: Diurnal (Active during day)
Lifespan: 16 - 22 years

Heavy-bodied rattlesnake with variable coloration (yellowish/tan/gray) and dark bands or chevrons; tail usually dark; prominent rattle. Often associated with forested hillsides, rocky ledges, and denning/overwintering sites.

Diet

Primarily small mammals.

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)
Kingdom: Animalia
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Phylum: Chordata
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Class: Reptilia
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Order: Squamata
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Family: Viperidae
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Genus: Crotalus
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Species: C. horridus

Scientific Name

Crotalus horridus
Breeding Season
mid-July - October
Nesting Season
N/A (live-bearing); young typically born Aug – Oct
Migration Pattern
No migration (seasonal movements to/from den sites)
Lifespan
16 - 22 years

Tracks or Signs

Communal/recurring den sites; shed skins; rattle; basking near rocky cover.

Behavior

Generally solitary; seasonal movements to/from den sites.

Ecological Role

Predator of small mammals; contributes to regulating rodent populations.

Safety Warning

This species can be dangerous to humans. Exercise caution and maintain a safe distance if encountered.

Active Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)

Habitat Types

Forest

Geographic Distribution

Broadly across parts of the eastern United States (range includes many states; declining in places).

Local Abundance

Uncommon

Range Map

Range map

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

Threats & Impacts

Habitat fragmentation, road mortality, persecution/collection; state assessments detail threats and protections.

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife

Additional Notes

Treat as high-risk venomous species; often protected by state law in parts of its range.

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Have you spotted this species? Your observations help us track populations and understand behavior patterns.

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