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Common Name: Timber Rattlesnake Scientific Name: Crotalus horridus Family: Viperidae |
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Geographic Range: most of the eastern United States Map of
timber rattlesnake range Habitat: Forests
and swampy areas Ecosystem: wooded hillsides, rock outcroppings, and canebreak thickets Niche: Consumer
and predator Example of species in a food chain: The sun gives energy to the oak tree,
whose seeds are eaten by the chipmunk, which is eaten by the Timber
Rattlesnake. Conservation Status: Endangered (in New Jersey) Description: The Timber Rattlesnake can be colored yellow or gray. Its markings
are black/reddish brown blotches that turn into bands. They have no markings
on their heads. Their young look like the adults but have a more “somber
coloring”. They have black tails. They are venomous. They are 36-54 inches
long. Voice:
They hiss, and if they feel threatened they make a rattling noise. Diet:
Small mammals (including squirrels, chipmunks, and mice) and small birds |
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Lifespan:
up to 29 years Breeding:
Timber Rattlesnakes mate in the autumn just after hibernating. They give
birth every other year and have 5-17 young. Females mature in 4-5 years. Timber
rattlesnake eating a mouse by Rachel N. |
