Rattlesnakes In Massachusetts

Identification

• A timber rattler grows between 36 and 60 inches on average, with the largest specimens reaching about 74 inches long. This snake has markings similar to two others in Massachusetts. The milk snake and the northern water snake have the same kind of dark blotches on its back. However, timber rattlers have a whitish belly, while the belly of a milk snake has a checkerboard appearance and that of the water snake has red and black crescent markings. A triangular head, vertical pupils in the eyes, heat-sensitive pits on both sides of its head and a rattle composed of shed skin further distinguish the snake from others.

Location and Habitat

• At one time, the timber rattler enjoyed a large distribution all over Massachusetts. The snake's modern range includes much of the Connecticut River Valley, part of the Boston area and Berkshire County in western Massachusetts. Timber rattlers live in densely forested areas, with rocky ridges in such environments a favorite haunt of this snake.

Human Effects

• Listed as endangered in Massachusetts, the timber rattler suffers from loss of habitat. Development directly and indirectly has an adverse effect on the population, when these snakes cross roads in their range often with fatal results. Even

  well-meaning individuals simply looking to view a timber rattler in the wild forge easily recognizable paths to their dens, which collectors and those looking to harm the species may use.

Seasonal Cycle

• In Massachusetts, the timber rattler emerges from its winter hibernation in the middle of April, taking the opportunity to bask on rocky ledges when the sun is out. The snakes are lethargic early in spring, but begin to feed more actively as the weather warms. Mating occurs during this time, and then the males remain in the forest, with females advancing to the edge of woodlands where temperatures normally are a bit warmer. The young, born alive, arrive in August or September. By late October nearly all timber rattlesnakes in Massachusetts are in their winter dens, where they remain until spring.