The

TIMBER RATTLESNAKE

The Timber Rattlesnake

(Crotalus horridus)

eeing Timber Rattlesnakes up close in the wild is a thrilling experience. They are a non-aggressive, quiet and very impressive animal. Contrary to popular belief, rattlers will strike only when they feel threatened. As long as we respect their domain and do not disrupt their natural behaviors, we can observe and appreciate them as they truly are in the wild.

The Timber Rattlesnake is indigenous to New York State and has been in the northeastern part of the United States for more than 8,000 years. They are on the Endangered Species List as “Protected“ in New York State so laws are in place to prohibit collecting, killing or endangering the snakes in any way.

Ongoing research is being done for the conservation and management of rattlesnakes in the northeast. Field biologists have been collecting data for more than 45 years to learn what they can about the behavior and habitats of the Timber Rattlesnake, contributing to the protection of the species. With both commercial and residential development displacing dens and habitats more and more as time goes on, the more we can learn about the Timber Rattlesnake, the more leverage we have in ensuring their long-term survival.

Education is a key factor in protecting the species, as well as enforcing laws that prohibit poaching and selling of snakes.

This site is sponsored by Polly Smith-Blackwell, a New York State licensed Timber Rattlesnake handler, to help educate the public about this reptile, and to further the understanding of a very misunderstood animal.

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“There's no greater thrill than seeing a Timber Rattlesnake

up close in the wild!”

—Polly Smith-Blackwell

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All images contained in this site © 2024 Polly Smith-Blackwell

All rights reserved. No reproduction, distribution or exhibition of copyrighted material.

CONTACT


All images contained in this site 

© 2022 Polly Smith-Blackwell

All rights reserved. 

No reproduction, distribution or exhibition 

of copyrighted material.