Brianna Groch, J. Mason Tomlin School
Gloucester County
Timber Rattlesnake. Gloucester County Brianna Groch
The Timber Rattlesnake
I am a timber rattlesnake, also known as canebrake or banded rattlesnake. I am one of New Jersey’s only two venomous snakes. We are members of the pit viper family due to the two facial pits we have between our nose and eyes. We also have a wider head than most snake species. We grow from 35 to 59 inches. We also have dark, V-shaped crossbands along our tan, gray, dark brown or black bodies.
We are very unique. I am one of nature’s only animals with a natural rattle on the end of my dark colored tail. My rattle emits a loud buzzing sound to warn off attackers. Still, we are not particularly aggressive. You are more likely to be attacked by a shark than to be bitten by me. If bitten by the one of us you should get anti-venom immediately. You see, our long fangs inject very powerful venom.
We should be saved! We are one of New Jersey’s many endangered species. Once thriving throughout New Jersey, loss of habitat and over hunting has sent us interesting animals to the endangered list. Under state laws it is illegal to harm, harass, or collect us. Remember, that does not mean it is illegal to help save us. Most people who harm timber rattlesnakes are afraid of us. We may eat mammals, but small ones!
I have met many lovely snakes with good personalities. I sadly have also passed dead bodies of fellow timber rattlesnakes that have been run over. If more people could go around snakes basking in the sun, instead of through, it would make a huge difference. Please help save timber rattlesnakes.
Written by: Brianna Groch
J. Mason Tomlin School, Mantua
Teacher: Taylor Collins