Have you met the timber rattlesnake at LSC? The fascinating pit viper lives on the third floor in our Eat and Be Eaten exhibition, along with 100+ fascinating animal species.

Timber rattlesnakes are venomous, but – like most wild snakes – will not attack humans unprovoked. While they may strike in self defense, they will be much quicker to flee if given the opportunity. Nearly all cases of snakebites occur when the snakes are being handled without proper training.

Timber rattlesnakes are endangered in New Jersey, and their population continues to decline due to human encroachment. Illegal collection of rattlesnakes for the exotic pet trade is also a concern for this species. Additionally, wild timber rattlesnakes are often maliciously killed by private property owners who inaccurately perceive them as a threat.

Meet the timber rattlesnake on your next visit to LSC, and learn what you can do to help protect endangered species throughout New Jersey and beyond.

animals,  Eat and Be Eaten,  snakes,  timber rattlesnake