Timber Rattlesnake Crotalus horridus
Identification
This species has a heavy body with dark crossbands on a yellow or brown background. It has a distinctive rattle at the tail tip.
Location
State endangered
Size
36 to 60 inches
Diet
It feeds mainly on small mammals.
Habitat
It occurs in remote forested hills of southern Ohio.
Activity Period
April to October
Behavior
It is secretive and avoids human contact. It relies on ambush hunting and uses venom to subdue prey. It is most active in warm months and basks on rocky ledges.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in summer and females give birth to live young every few years.
Population
The population is small and highly vulnerable.
History
It has declined significantly due to habitat loss and persecution.
Human Interactions
It avoids humans and rarely bites unless provoked.
Facts
It is one of Ohios only venomous snakes.
Sources
USFWS ODNR
Small mammals birds amphibians | Forests rugged hills rocky slopes | Southern Ohio