Snakes

Virginia is home to more than 30 snake species

This includes three venomous species. Here are some examples of venomous and non-venomous snake species found in the area:

Venomous:

• Eastern Copperhead
• Northern Cottonmouth
• Timber Rattlesnake

Non-Venomous:

• Northern Black Racer
• Eastern Rat Snake
• Eastern Garter Snake

How can you tell what kind of snake bit you? Identifying the type of snake responsible for a bite can be critical for appropriate treatment.

• One method to distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snake bites is by examining the bite marks.
• A bite from a venomous snake typically results in two distinct puncture wounds on the skin.
• A non-venomous snake bite generally produces a U-shaped pattern of small puncture marks.

Treatment:

1. Immediate medical attention should be sought following a snake bite. Do not wait—seek medical attention right away!
2. Remain still and calm.
3. Remove any constrictive items, such as jewelry or jackets, near the bite site to prevent swelling-related complications.
4. The affected limb should be kept below heart level to slow the spread of venom through the bloodstream.
5. A clean, dry bandage should be applied to the bite, and the area should remain immobilized until medical assistance is obtained.

 

A Timber Rattlesnake, characterized by golden eyes and dark brown or black V-shaped chevron bands across a yellowish-brown, gray, or tan body, is often found coiled on the forest floor.

NPS/Photo

Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)

The timber rattlesnake, also referred to as the canebrake or banded rattlesnake, is a pit viper native to the eastern United States. Like other pit vipers, it is venomous and capable of delivering a medically significant bite.

Appearance
The timber rattlesnake is a large, heavy-bodied pit viper that typically measures 36 to 60 inches in length. It is characterized by dark brown or black V-shaped or chevron bands across a yellowish-brown, gray, or tan body. Distinctive features include a solid black tail, heavily keeled scales, and a large, broad, triangular head. This coloration and pattern provide effective camouflage among ground vegetation.

Venom
The timber rattlesnake is highly venomous, with venom composition varying by region. Its venom may contain neurotoxins, which affect the nervous system, hemotoxins, which damage blood and tissue, or both. Bites constitute a severe medical emergency and require immediate treatment to prevent serious harm. Fatalities are rare due to the availability of modern antivenom.

Behavior
Timber rattlesnakes are generally shy ambush predators that rely on camouflage and a sit-and-wait strategy to hunt small mammals. Their primary behaviors include foraging, reproduction, and hibernation in communal dens. These snakes display greater aggression toward other males, often engaging in combat dances, while typically avoiding humans by rattling or fleeing as a warning. Timber rattlesnakes use heat-sensing pits and scent to locate prey, and their venom may contain both neurotoxins and hemotoxins.

Habitat
The timber rattlesnake prefers mature, heavily wooded forests on rocky, south-facing hillsides and is often found on bluffs or ledges. It may also inhabit mountainous areas, swamps, cane thickets, wooded stream corridors, and rural environments. Timber rattlesnakes are commonly observed coiled near fallen logs or sunning on rocks.