Timber Rattlesnake
Crotalus horridus · Viperidae (Pit Viper)
Also called: Canebrake Rattlesnake, Banded Rattlesnake
A large forest rattlesnake of the eastern US with a calm temperament but highly potent venom. Often confused with the harmless Eastern Ratsnake.
What the Timber Rattlesnake looks like
How to identify it
- 1Dark V-shaped or chevron crossbands across the back
- 2Often a rusty-orange dorsal stripe down the spine
- 3Black tail tipped with a tan rattle
- 4Wide triangular head and vertical pupils
Snakes it's confused with
Harmless; round pupils, no rattle, climbs trees readily.
Behavior & danger to humans
Usually mild-mannered and reluctant to strike, giving long warning rattles.
⚠️ Danger: Highly venomous. Despite its calm nature, a bite needs immediate emergency treatment.
Related snakes
VenomousEastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
Crotalus adamanteus
The largest venomous snake in North America and arguably the most dangerous. Its hemotoxic venom destroys tissue and blood cells, and a defensive bite is a medical emergency.
VenomousCopperhead
Agkistrodon contortrix
Responsible for more venomous snakebites than any other US species, but its bite is rarely fatal. Excellent camouflage in leaf litter leads to surprise encounters.
VenomousCottonmouth (Water Moccasin)
Agkistrodon piscivorus
A semi-aquatic pit viper named for the white interior of its mouth, which it gapes as a warning. The only venomous water snake in North America.
VenomousEastern Coral Snake
Micrurus fulvius
A relative of cobras with potent neurotoxic venom. Famous for the rhyme 'red touches yellow, kill a fellow' that separates it from harmless mimics.