Question of the Week – Timber Rattler

11.09.2024 - 12:30 / hgic.clemson.edu / Justin Ballew

What kind of snake is this and is it poisonous?

This is a timber rattler (Crotalus horridus), also known as a canebrake rattler. While snakes are not poisonous, this species is venomous.
What is the difference between the terms poisonous and venomous?

Natural Resources Extension Associate Mallory Mahr explains in a recent blog, “Both poison and venom are toxins that can cause harm to humans. However, the difference between poison and venom is how they enter our bodies. Poison must be ingested, inhaled, eaten, or even touched, like eating a poisonous mushroom or touching poison ivy. Venom is injected and delivered by bites or stings—for example, fangs from a rattlesnake or getting stung by a stingray or a bee. The venomous animals must puncture the skin to be effective!”

The timber rattler (Crotalus horridus) is one of 6 species of venomous snakes in South Carolina. Timber rattlers can be found throughout most of the state and are capable of climbing trees. They are ambush predators that spend most of their time waiting for prey to come within striking distance. Prey includes rodents such as rats, mice, squirrels, and occasionally birds, lizards, and amphibians. When a snake like this is found, the best thing to do is leave it alone. More snake bites occur on the hands and forearms than any other part of the body. You can probably guess why. Read more about timber rattlers here.

This week’s question is from Justin Ballew, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Research Associate.