Hobbies And Interests
Geography
The eastern diamondback rattlesnake can be found in the southeastern part of the state of North Carolina. They are also found in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida. The timber rattlesnake, also called the canebrake rattlesnake, is widespread throughout North Carolina. The odds of a North Carolinian seeing a rattlesnake other than a timber rattler is slim. Eastern diamondbacks are becoming very rare in North Carolina due to loss of habitat.
Habitat
Eastern diamondbacks prefer the coastal lowlands but will make a home anywhere they can find food and shelter without being messed with. They love palmetto scrub and dry pine woods and usually stay close to a water source. The timber rattlesnake loves the woods as well, but they particularly like rock outcroppings. They can also do well in grasslands and fields where the grass is high. Timber rattlesnakes live comfortably up in the mountains as well.
Diet
Eastern diamondbacks and timber rattlers eat pretty much the same diets. Rabbits, birds, chipmunks, rodents and squirrels are likely meals. They both hunt using the same methods. They will sit in an area where these animals travel and wait. Silently they wait until the animal is close enough to strike and then they lash out, sinking their two fangs deep into the victim. The venom travels through the fangs and into the open wound killing the animal. Occasionally the animal will run away after being bitten, but the rattlesnake will use their heat sensing pits to track the dying meal. Eventually the animal dies from the venom. They then eat it head first.
Size and Markings
The eastern diamondback is the largest venomous snake in North America, growing to nearly 8 feet in length. The timber rattlesnake is normally about 5 feet. Both are heavy-bodied snakes that get very fat around the middle. The eastern diamondback is known for having "raccoon eyes" because of the stripes that frame their eyes. Also, the snake is covered from front to back with diamond-shaped markings that are framed in yellow or cream. Timber rattlers have crossband or chevron patterns and are usually a pinkish hue to dark brown depending on location. They can even appear yellow.
Danger to Humans
The eastern diamondback is more often than not the snake responsible for deaths by snakebite in the southeast. When an eastern diamondback bites, they can inject copious amounts of venom due to huge venom glands.Timber rattlesnakes are also venomous and dangerous, but they generally do not inject as much venom. Both snake bites are medical emergencies, but the timber rattlesnake's venom is much less dangerous from a tissue loss standpoint..
Temperament
Both of these rattlesnakes are willing to fight if they are cornered, but the timber rattlesnake is much more likely to slink away upon sensing your presence. An eastern diamondback will stand its ground and puff up large, ready to strike. They are certainly not wanting an encounter, but they are quick to strike if you come too close. Timber rattlers are a bit more timid unless you corner them. If you back them into a corner, they will fight to the death. Both of these dangerous reptiles should be left alone and given a wide berth.