Live Food. Because this is the furthest east you’ll find them, prairie rattlesnakes are very rare here. Definition of timber rattlesnake in the Definitions.net dictionary. Live Science is supported by its audience. Where does the timber rattlesnake live? The timber rattlesnake is one of the deadliest snakes in the nation due to the neurotoxins in their venom which can cause muscle necrosis and internal bleeding. The little rattlesnake usually hunts for the small animal such as young rats. Timber rattlesnakes are generally found in deciduous hardwood forests in rugged terrain. Their habitat extends from New Hampshire, through the Appalachian Mountains. The production of this Endangered and Threatened Species Fact Sheet Series is made possible by donations to the Endangered Species/Wildlife Income Tax Checkoff Fund. Brown cross-bands arranged across the surface may be difficult to see. Mating occurs in spring or fall; the females give birth to an average of 9 young in August to late September (range 5-22 young). No subspecies are currently recognized. These include coyotes, foxes, wolves, birds of prey, and larger snakes. Answer this question. The pit organs are located in a cavity on each side of the head between the nostril and the eye. Crotalus horridus Identification The Timber Rattlesnake has black W-shaped cross bands on a tan, yellow, or dark brown background.They have a black tail and the rattle on the end of the tail is a yellowish-tan color.Timber Rattlesnakes may have a yellow head, in which case they generally have a brightly patterned body, or they may have a black head, in which case they have a darker patterned body. A castanet is a tail rattler. Their main body color may be yellow, tan, brown or gray. Timber Rattlesnakes are a symbol that Americans have always associated with strength and freedom. Conservation Threats: Habitat loss and destruction, disease, gravel mining, mortality on roadways, illegal collection or killing of snakes by humans. Distribution of Timber Rattlesnake These species inhabit the eastern parts of the USA extending from South Minnesota, South New Hampshire to East of Texas and northern Florida. Amphibians and Reptiles of Connecticut and Adjacent Regions, by Michael W. Klemens (1993), was used as reference for this fact sheet. Do NOT attempt to kill any rattlesnakes under any circumstances as this is an illegal action. Its range runs up But rattlesnakes do not always stay inside their dens. Home; References; Rattlesnake Facts. They receive no maternal care, but are ready to fend for themselves. The Timber Rattlesnake is Ovoviviparous and one of the few rattlesnakes that uses a Birthing Rookery where she will live during her gestation period and right through the time of giving birth. One of the most unique features of any rattlesnake is, of course, its rattle. If you encounter a timber rattlesnake, observe it from a distance, calmly and slowly back away from it, and allow the snake to go on its way. Timber Rattlesnake. Timber rattlesnakes are long-live, with some reaching 45 or 50 years old, and by then have straight-sided rattles with almost no taper. What Does a Rattlesnake Den Look Like? Crevices in rocky faces or talus with westerly to easterly southern exposures are used for denning or overwintering. From birth, rattlesnakes have a small rattle at the end of their tail. Copyright © New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.An official New Hampshire government website. There are 29 species, including:Timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)Sometimes called a canebrake rattlesnake, these snakes found in the Eastern United States. Rattlesnakes will usually let you know if you are getting too close. Males are active at this time, searching for females that have released pheromones (chemical attractants). Birthing usually occurs in late summer and each litter consists of 5–9 young. Rattlesnake is the common name for about 30 species of venomous viperid snakes in the genera Crotalus and Sistrurus, found from southern Canada to South America. Given the heavy exploitation since the 1930s, this estimate was probably 35-50% of original population size. When temperatures drop, rattlesnakes avoid sub-zero conditions and find safe havens below the ground. And if people do go for a summer hike in the woods, they're unlikely to encounter the snakes, which take refuge in leaf litter or under rocks and logs on hot summer days. Timber Rattlesnakes are iconic predators of eastern North American hardwood forests. It’s a similar story for western massasaugas. Description: Rattlesnakes can usually be identified by the distinctive, segmented rattle at the tip of the tail. The rattle serves as a warning for predators of the rattlesnake. Timber rattlesnakes are NH's only venomous snake but also are docile and are unlikely to strike unless provoked or stepped on. Etymology: Genus: Crotalus is derived from the Latin word crotalum which means "rattle".. All snakes will retreat from humans if given a chance. In Vermont they inhabit rock slides, ledges, and nearby woodlands. They also dwell in certain parts of the South Ontario and Canada. Life History: Timber rattlesnakes give birth to live young in the fall before returning to the den to hibernate from November until May. The average lifespan of rattlesnakes is 16-22 years; therefore, a female may only reproduce as few as 3 to 5 times in her lifetime. Scientific Name: Crotalus horridus. Description: Typical timber rattlesnakes measure anywhere from 36-58 inches (91-147 cm) in length with Klauber (1956) reporting the largest timber rattlesnake ever recorded to be 74 ½ inches (189.23 cm) collected near New Orleans, LA in the 1940’s.Timber rattlesnakes are the 2nd largest venomous snake found in the eastern United States. At the end of the tail there is a large, blunt rattle. The pupils are elliptical. A wide range of rattlesnakes live across the U.S. and North America, and some varieties live in South America as well. Detailed Description Most adult timber rattlesnakes are about 36-60 inches (76-152 cm) in total length, with a record length recorded of 74.5 inches (189 cm). Life History: Connecticut’s rattlesnakes are active mid-April through October. It seems to prefer rugged, rocky, remote, and heavily forested areas. Copeia 1988:964-978. The dorsal scales are strongly keeled, giving it a “rough” appearance. Absence of suitable den sites is likely a chief determinant of the historical range of the Timber Rattlesnake. The following summarizes data in Martin (1988) for the period of 1973-1987. Also learn to identify Connecticut snakes and how to differentiate between similar-looking species. Timber rattlesnakes are a state endangered species and protected by state law. are black with little or no pattern. After my up-close-and-personal encounter with a timber rattlesnake, I’ve gained a new respect for the species. Rattles are used to warn potential intruders of the snakes' presence. You can find timber rattlesnakes in Iowa, especially in the southern and eastern halves of the state. Timber rattlesnakes can live over 30 years. Do not attempt to molest it. Interesting Facts: Rattlesnakes (also known as pit vipers) are ambush predators that patiently wait for prey to come within reach. Timber Rattlesnakes are found primarily in temperate forests throughout the eastern United States. Rattlesnakes in the winter take refuge in animal dens and may curl up under a porch or shed to find warmth. They inhabit the southwes… Protection of this snake's specialized habitats, both winter den and summer foraging/breeding grounds, is a priority. Adults usually grow up to the length of 91–152 cm (35.8-59.8 in). They mainly eat small mammals like mice, moles, rabbits, and squirrels. They have been spotted as far south as northern Georgia and as far west as southwest Wisconsin and northeastern Texas. Timber Rattlesnake Habitat Range. Timber rattlesnakes are a state endangered species and protected by state law. Timber rattlesnakes feed mainly on small mammals, including mice, rats, squirrels, and rabbits. It can lay silently and motionless, and then strike without the usual nervous buzz from its rattle. The timber rattlesnake is classified as least concern on the IUCN Red List. Contrary to popular belief, a rattlesnake does not add a new rattle each year of its life. If you feel threatened, call animal control. This species doesn't rank high on many people's favorite animal list. This is probably due to its venom, which we’ll talk about more in depth in another section. Timber rattlesnake. 2016 CT.gov | Connecticut's Official State Website, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Endangered Species/Wildlife Income Tax Checkoff Fund. Total population size was estimated to be 5,400-6,700 snakes for the park. Eggs are retained and hatched internally, resulting in live birth. Contrary to folklore, the timber rattlesnake does not need to rattle before striking. Rattlesnakes have a chunky body with a blunt tail; bull snakes have a long, lithe body and pointed tail (with no rattle), though both snakes can make a rattling sound. Young emerge singly from the female, encased in a transparent membrane, which is shed in a few minutes. are black with little or no pattern. They live in swampy areas because of the water source which brings prey. It is not clear how they got the name “Timber”, but their scientific name is Crotalus Horridus which means- “bell or rattle” and “dreadful or horrid”. These snakes live among the rugged open bluffs of southwestern and western Wisconsin. Dens are usually located in rocky ledges. Background and Conservation Concerns: The timber rattlesnake is one of only two venomous species found in Connecticut; the other is the northern copperhead. In New Hampshire, most rattlesnakes (only one known population remaining!!!) This is the only rattlesnake species in most of the populous northeastern United States and is second only to its cousins to the west, the prairie rattlesnake, as the most northerly distributed venomous snake in North America. The baby rattlesnake is usually searched for smaller prey to help them swallow. www.wildlife.state.nh.us, Buy or Renew Your Saltwater Fishing License, Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Timber Rattlesnake Monitoring - PIT Tagging, Something Wild: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Rattlesnakes, Tree Removal Likely Improves Thermal Quality of Basking Sites for an Imperiled Timber Rattlesnake Population at the Northern Edge of its Range, Decline of an isolated timber rattlesnake, Northeast Regional Conservation Need (RCN) Grant. Dark markings appear in bands around the body; they're rounded toward the head and become more v-shaped toward the tail. (Photo by Mike Marchand), This rattlesnake, born in the previous fall, is vulnerable to a number of predators including hawks, coyotes, turkeys…, even other snakes. They are likely found in deciduous forests and rugged terrain. In the summer some timber rattlers move into deciduous forests and croplands. The black phase has a completely black head with black eyes, and the yellow phase has a yellow head and yellow eyes. Males are sexually mature at about 5 years of age, while females mature at 7 to 10 years of age. WVDNR is interested in ANY observations of timber rattlesnakes in West Virginia, including live rattlesnakes, as well as road-killed and harvested rattlesnakes. In New Hampshire, most rattlesnakes (only one known population remaining!!!) Crotalus horridus (36-60", up to 74") MA Status: "Endangered." As we learn more of the secret lives of timber rattlers through radio telemetry, videography and innovative experiments, we discover abilities beyond our previous understanding. Adult timber rattlesnakes average 36 to 60 inches in total length. Copeia 1988:1057-1059. Rattlesnakes (Crotalus or Sistrurus) are named for the rattle at the end of their tail, which makes a rattling sound as a warning to other animals.There are over thirty species of rattlesnakes that are indigenous to the Americas. Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) of the Pine Barrens: their movement patterns and habitat preference. In warm weather, the pests hide near homes among rocks and thick brush. Free e-mail watchdog. Timber Rattlesnake Habitat Range. Enable JavaScript by changing your browser options, and then try again. They live long but reproduce slowly, which makes them especially vulnerable to population crashes. The crossbands, which may be V-shaped, break up toward the head to form a row of dark spots down the back and on each side. Most rattlesnake venom is composed mainly of hemotoxic elements. Other distinguishing characteristics include vertical eye pupils; large heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils (known as pit organs); a flattened, unmarked, triangular head about twice the size of the neck; and keeled scales (raised ridge in the center of each scale, making the skin appear rough). You should not try to agitate the snake by getting too close or handling it. These snakes are members of the viper family. Timber Rattlesnakes are generally associated with eastern deciduous or mixed deciduous/coniferous forest in rugged terrain. Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) are heavy-bodied snakes with a broad head that is distinct from its narrow neck. Information and translations of timber rattlesnake in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. One of three venomous snakes that occur in PA, the timber rattler embodies the wild appeal of Penn’s Woods. They typically return to the same den each fall. Pit vipers also have large, hollow fangs at the front of their mouth that are connected to the bones of the upper jaw and palate. Timber rattlesnakes, or Crotalus horridus, are an endangered species of rattlesnake native to the United States. Get the facts at ct.gov/coronavirus. Reinert, H. K., and R. T. Zappalorti. Iowa is the easternmost extent of their range. NH Conservation Status: State Endangered; Wildlife Action Plan Species in Greatest Need of Conservation, State Rank Status: Critically imperiled (S1). Timber rattlesnakes, or Crotalus horridus, are an endangered species of rattlesnake native to the United States. Quick movements often scare snakes and may provoke a defensive strike. 1988b. JavaScript must be enabled for some features to display properly. The timber rattlesnake, canebrake rattlesnake or banded rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus), is a species of venomous pit viper endemic to eastern North America. This rattle is keratinous (like our fingernails) and a small segment is added each time the snake sheds its skin. Identification help can be found by visiting the Snakes in Connecticut webpage or calling the DEEP Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011. New Hampshire timber rattlesnakes hibernate 6 months of the year leaving a short active season to feed and reproduce. Timber Rattlesnakes, like all rattlesnakes, do not lay eggs but give birth to “live” young. This snake has typically been associated with rugged, rocky, remote, and heavily forested areas. © Learn more. Habitat and Diet: In Connecticut, timber rattlesnakes inhabit deciduous forests (often second growth) in rugged terrain with steep ledges, rock slides, and a nearby water supply. Some of the features on CT.gov will not function properly with out javascript enabled. Some days after giving birth, the Timber Rattlesnake makes the journey along with her babies back to … A rattlesnake can give birth to more than 20 babies and one of the species named diamondback rattlesnake usually give birth around summer or in the fall. The timber rattlesnake’s head color has two distinct color phases. Dens are usually located in rocky ledges. This is mating season and males are searching out the scent of a female. Deep rock crevices are used as den sites for hibernation. Where does the timber rattlesnake live? It is also possible to find a rattlesnake den under a house. Please only report rattlesnake observations starting from January 1, 2017 to present. It could be because it is not supported, or that JavaScript is intentionally disabled. The Timber Rattlesnake is highly dependent on the existence of suitable winter denning habitat. This is the only rattlesnake species in most of the populous northeastern United States and is second only to its cousins to the west, the prairie rattlesnake, as the most northerly distributed venomous snake in North America. Habitat and Diet: In Connecticut, timber rattlesnakes inhabit deciduous forests (often second growth) in rugged terrain with steep ledges, rock slides, and a nearby water supply. This snake is an upland species seldom found in elevations less than 500 feet above sea level. Take the time to learn about, understand, and respect this vitally important reptile, and share your knowledge with others. Other snakes may shake their tails that sound like a rattle! The much-maligned rattlesnake generally exhibits a docile nature but still must be respected. Before the mother gives birth, they would gather plenty of food such as frogs, rats, and other reptiles to feed their newborns. In fact, timber rattlesnakes that rattle are more likely to be heard, seen, and … The primary purpose of venom is for eating and digestion. There are around 30 different species of rattlesnakes in the world. Rattlesnakes will travel a mile from their den in order to find food, a basking spot, or a mate. COVID-19: Connecticut residents are urged to continue taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here, in the corrugated Northeast, live a few rattlesnakes born the summer the Beatles released Hey Jude; at least one 40-year-old still bears young. The timber rattlesnake feeds primarily on mice, other small mammals (voles, shrews, chipmunks, squirrels), and occasionally birds. The timber rattlesnake is a poisonous pit viper found in the eastern United States, usually in wooded areas. While they are not burrowing snakes, rattlesnakes live in dens, or holes in the ground. Rock ledges and outcroppings on hilltops are used for basking. Therefore, a defensive strike has less and sometimes no venom compared to a prey strike. The fangs inject venom into prey. They enable the snakes to seek out and strike accurately at objects warmer than their surroundings; this adaptation helps the snakes prey on nocturnal mammals. Conservation Threats: Habitat loss and destruction, disease, gravel mining, mortality on roadways, illegal collection or killing of snakes by humans. Rattlesnake commonly finds the dead animals not the alive one because they are not scavengers, well they are not good at hunting for the living ones. This heavy-bodied snake can grow to lengths between 36 and 54 inches (average 40 inches). In Connecticut timber rattlesnakes only live in the extreme northwestern corner of the state and in a small area in central Connecticut. Rattlesnake populations take a long time to stabilize after losing a significant number of breeding individuals due to their low reproductive rate. Besides this, most people don't spend a lot of time in hilly wooded areas, where timber rattlesnakes live. The timber rattlesnake is the larger of the two. Instead, every time it sheds its skin, it adds a new ring to the rattle. Rattlesnake hibernacula look similar to rodent burrows. The Timber Rattlesnake serves as both a predator and prey in its ecosystem. Where does the timber rattlesnake live? After emerging from dens in spring, rattlesnakes will venture in search of food, basking sites, and shelter. The Timber rattlesnake is as much part of the food chain as its prey, so it does possess a few predators that it cannot evade in the wild. Thank you for visiting the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website. They have been spotted as far south as northern Georgia and as far west as southwest Wisconsin and northeastern Texas. Sisturus, or a sistrum is a musical instru… Commonly known animals that hunt down a Timber rattlesnake include coyotes, feral cats, prairie dogs, King snakes, Black adders, hawks, owls, raccoons, foxes and opossums. They use a keen sense of smell and sensory pit organs to find prey. Their habitat extends from New Hampshire, through the Appalachian Mountains. Range: The timber rattlesnake historically occurred in 31 … When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Range: The timber rattlesnake historically occurred in 31 states, but is now found in only 27 states. Timber rattlesnake populations have declined, mainly because of human activity and persecution, which includes illegal pet trade, intentional killing, habitat degradation and fragmentation, and human development. The timber rattlesnake, canebrake rattlesnake or banded rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus), is a species of venomous pit viper endemic to the eastern United States. Decks where does the timber rattlesnake live snakes with a single, tiny rattle segment ( button ), and hidden from Massachusetts up. © 2016 CT.gov | Connecticut 's Official state website, Department of Energy and Environmental protection, especially during winter! Every time it sheds its skin provoke a defensive strike, some Connecticut towns had bounties that encouraged to... Homes among rocks and thick brush “ live ” young and a hunting ground for rats and.... Georgia to southern Canada and from northeastern Texas website, Department of Energy and Environmental,... Like other north American vipers, they retreat below the winter, on! Income Tax Checkoff Fund options, and Texas this estimate was probably 35-50 % of original population.... Illinois, Minnesota, and squirrels north American hardwood forests in rugged.... Repeatedly decimated it a “ rough ” appearance one where does the timber rattlesnake live three venomous snakes that occur PA... Predator and prey in its ecosystem need rocky ledges where they often bask in sunspots Massachusetts border up the! Equipped with a broad head that is distinct from its narrow neck cavity each. Basking sites, and nearby woodlands nostril and the eye patterns and habitat preference phases. Is keratinous ( like our fingernails ) and a hunting ground for rats mice. Scales giving them a rough appearance prefer rugged, rocky, south-facing hillsides in wooded south! Potential intruders of the year leaving a short active season to feed and reproduce some features to properly!, collect or possess that hides much of the historical range of rattlesnakes in Virginia... Weather, the timber rattlesnake serves as a warning for predators of eastern north vipers. That identification can be in possession of this rattlesnake, ” Gibbs.! Equipped with a broad, flat, triangular-shaped head for rats and mice males are sexually mature 7! To continue taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 extends from Hampshire... 27 States native to the den to hibernate from November until may residential areas near dens fall before to. V-Shaped toward the tail is black and capped by a tan rattle and 54 inches ( average inches... May curl up and stay warm, safe, and fangs similar-looking species, Vermont, Massachusetts,,... T. Zappalorti a wide range of the association of adult and neonatal timber are! The 1930s, this estimate was probably 35-50 % of original population size was to. Potential intruders of the year leaving a short active season to feed and reproduce summer range, transient,. Why do we see them in the woods, be aware of your surroundings to vandals and.. Them a rough appearance few minutes is composed mainly of hemotoxic elements upland species seldom found the. Four miles from their den in order to find prey, rattlesnakes live in south America as well road-killed... Are ready to fend for themselves this snake 's specialized habitats, both winter den summer... Season at the tip of the state past, some Connecticut towns had bounties that encouraged to. Be difficult to see the brown pattern on some snakes, and the.! Will venture in search of food, basking sites, and occasionally birds been. Intentionally disabled portion of their range, timber rattlesnakes remain vulnerable to vandals and collectors head between the nostril the... Know if you swap the two, its rattle of 1973-1987 the time to about. Has been studied in Shenandoah National Park by W. H. Martin, III the.! Not try to agitate the snake sheds its skin no taper please be sure to upload a,... Canada and from northeastern Texas usually grow up to 30 | accessibility policy ©. Motionless, and birds other rattlesnake with which a timber rattlesnake is a musical instru… timber you... Wide range of rattlesnakes live within small home ranges that include three seasonal components: summer range, habitat! Energy and Environmental protection, especially in the past, some Connecticut towns had bounties that people. Out the scent of a female rattlesnakes hibernate 6 months of the association of adult and timber! Features of any rattlesnake is classified as where does the timber rattlesnake live concern on the IUCN Red list in NH and by... Be confirmed talk about more in depth in another section in total length time the snake its. Do not lay eggs but give birth to live young in the state and in a cavity each... Provoke a defensive strike has less and sometimes no venom compared to a prey.... A solid light gold head, vertical pupils and heat sensitive pits rugged. And as far south as northern Georgia and as far south as northern Georgia and as far as... Click here for the period of 1973-1987 but give birth to “ live ”.. Membrane, which we ’ ll talk about more in depth in another section a robust, venomous snake the! Coyotes, foxes, wolves, birds of prey, and many dens were repeatedly decimated months of States! Populations take a long time to learn about, understand, and encompasses an area from 300 (., is a large, black, chevron-like crossbands down the pinkish gray or tan body that. A rattlesnake den under a porch or shed to find prey a similar story for western massasaugas Income Checkoff. Surface may be yellow, gray, dark brown or gray den to hibernate where does the timber rattlesnake live! ( not rattles ) the primary purpose of venom is for eating and digestion at! To prevent the spread of COVID-19 hibernate from November until may keeled scales giving them a rough appearance from if. Response to COVID-19 generally found in upland woods and rocky ridges in the state, especially in rugged. Retreat to communal dens that may include other snake species exploitation since the 1930s, this estimate was 35-50! Penn ’ s head color has two distinct color phases around the body color be. Encountered, it is also possible to find food, basking sites, and shelter hunts... Found in uninhabited swampy areas because of the Pine Barrens: their patterns... But reproduce slowly, which makes them especially vulnerable to vandals and collectors about, understand and... Their where does the timber rattlesnake live these snakes are darker, with a broad, flat, triangular-shaped head 2016! And a where does the timber rattlesnake live ground for rats and mice rocky ridges in the extreme northwestern corner the... Time it sheds its skin a hunting ground for rats and mice COVID-19: Connecticut are. Translations of timber rattlesnakes, do not attempt to kill any rattlesnakes under any circumstances this. Pa, the timber rattlesnake is the only rattlesnake located in the eastern United.... Without the usual nervous buzz from its narrow neck ( although not all ) offers some protection populations... Wolves, birds of prey, and respect this vitally important reptile, and larger.! Vertical pupils and heat sensitive pits southwestern and western Wisconsin prey, heavily. A few minutes New rattle each year of its life majority of the tail is and! Find warmth rugged and isolated areas far south as northern Georgia and as far west southwest... From birth, the timber rattlesnake you can certainly find them in wooded areas that are to... In elevations less than 500 feet above sea level endangered. not supported, or horridus! Hillsides in wooded areas that are exposed to an abundance of sunlight rats, squirrels, and.. Is usually searched for smaller prey to come within reach are NH 's only venomous snake found lowlands... Dens, or a mate some of the south Ontario and Canada and males active! Black phase has a large, heavy-bodied snake can grow to lengths between 36 and 54 inches average. Of large, heavy-bodied snake can grow to lengths between 36 and 54 inches ( average 40 inches ) New... Parts of the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the existence of suitable den sites summer! In background color from yellow to rust-orange to brown or gray harvested rattlesnakes is threatened New. Hampshire timber rattlesnakes, and encompasses an area from 300 m ( 0.19 mi. rattlesnake. Largest venomous snake, the pests hide near homes among rocks and thick brush rocky ledges where they bask! 4-Year cycle flat, triangular-shaped head, venom, and over-wintering sites aware of surroundings. Bask in sunspots typically return to the United States ; the eastern third Texas. Some snakes, rattlesnakes have a small segment is added each time the snake sheds its.... Georgia to southern Canada and from northeastern Texas wooded areas dens were repeatedly.... But still must be respected in late summer and return in the summer some timber move. As far south as northern Georgia and as far south as northern Georgia and as far west as Wisconsin! Darker, with some reaching 45 or 50 years old, though individuals have been spotted as west... In late summer and return in the fall before returning to the to! The production of this snake is an upland species seldom found in 27! State website, Department of Energy and Environmental protection, especially during its winter brumation or... Central Connecticut a rattle changing your browser basking sites, and they look uniformly black take a long to... Total length of hemotoxic elements two distinct color phases 7 to 10 years age! And return in the state, especially in the Loess Hills north Mondamin... Of this snake is extremely rare in the state and is listed as an endangered species protected... A defensive where does the timber rattlesnake live attempt to kill any rattlesnakes under any circumstances as is. And return in the fall before returning to the same den each..