We have all heard our fair share about the black bears, coyotes, mountain lions, and bobcats of the Adirondack Park, but the predator we don’t talk enough about is the Timber Rattlesnake. While they are rarely aggressive, it’s a good idea to stay alert of the Timber Rattlesnake when exploring in the Adirondacks. The most important aspects of this snake are how to identify it, where it is more likely to be found, and how to avoid its poisonous bite. 

The Timber Rattlesnake takes on a light or dark “phase” from birth with yellow to brown or black chevrons, also known as crossbands, refer to Image 1. This snake, typically 3-4 feet long, has a large triangular head and a distinctive rattle. Interestingly, snake rattles are attached segments of loose keratin that build up with each shedding of a snake, and rattle by tapping together when the snake shakes its tail (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation). This snake is not aggressive unless bothered or threatened, and it won’t seek you out if you leave it be, but it is important to be able to recognize it while out in the wilderness.

Image 1. Light phase (upper) and dark phase (lower) of Timber Rattlesnakes. (PA Herpetology)

This slithery musician is most common in the eastern edge of the Adirondack park, but is known to occupy any hilly or mountainous region with rugged terrain. It prefers locations where it can hide away undisturbed and has been found in deciduous/hardwood forests, lowlands, wetlands, and crevices of rocks (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation). It is common for snakes to hide where you least expect to find anything; I have once counted 27 garter snakes hiding in a pile of tin roofing sheets and lumber! Snakes have a threatening aura because of the unusual way they move, but will likely stay away if left alone. With any poisonous animal, though, it is paramount to be knowledgeable of where you may find them to be prepared for the chance you meet. 

So what do you do if you are walking along a trail and hear a rattle? Stop walking and look around you to spot the snake. If you see it, avoid it by keeping 6 feet between each other and walk past. Always watch your step when walking, and wear boots and socks that cover your ankles if possible. Be sure to scan rocks and logs before sitting on them (Adirondack.net). Keep your eyes and ears open when exploring the Adirondack park, not just for bears and coyotes, but also for the ground dwellers, Timber Rattlesnakes.

Works Cited:

“Dangerous Animals in the Adirondacks.” Adirondack.net, https://www.adirondack.net/wildlife/dangerous-animals/#4.

Poston, Jason. “Heads up!” PA HERP IDENTIFICATION, https://www.paherps.com/herps/snakes/timber/.“Timber Rattlesnake.” Timber

Rattlesnake – NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7147.html.