Timber Rattlesnake

Description:

Timber rattlesnakes actually have 6 different color phases but what always stands out is that every timber has the black at the end of their tail. The color phase is determined by the color of the stripe that runs down their back. The rattle links do not determine age but determine how many times the snake has shed it's skin. It also can break off because it is made of the same material as your fingernail. The rattle is hollow and links on top of each other to give it the "shake" sound

Habitat:

Brown County, Indiana Generally, this species is found in deciduous forests in rugged terrain. During the summer, pregnant females seem to prefer open, rocky ledges where the temperatures are higher, while males and non-pregnant females tend to spend more time in cooler, denser woodland with a more closed forest canopy. They hibernate in the same den every year with other timbers. This is why they cannot be relocated to other areas.

Notes:

One of the most beautiful snakes. They are endangered in Indiana and I was very lucky to assist a few days on the research that was held in our park. It was a 5 year study which provided us with amazing information.