Discover Why the Timber Rattlesnake is West Virginia’s State Reptile

West Virginia is one of the most beautiful states in the eastern United States. It is known for many of its beautiful and scenic mountain ranges. In fact, West Virginia is the only state that is completely within the range of the Appalachian Mountains. Additionally, thanks to its outdoor beauty, you can find lots of beautiful outdoor activities that you can partake in as well. Since the state has so much outdoor beauty to offer, this also means that it has a lot of wildlife, including reptiles. Did you know, however, that the timber rattlesnake is actually the state reptile of West Virginia?

Did you know that there are a great number of states that have a state reptile? If you didn’t and you’re curious to learn more, you’re in luck. We’ve got the rundown on how the timber rattlesnake got lucky enough to be named the state’s reptile and other fascinating facts!

What Is a State Reptile?

You may be wondering what exactly a state reptile is. A state reptile is an animal that has specifically been chosen by an American state to represent the state. When it comes to the type of reptile chosen, there are many that can make the cut. This includes turtles, alligators, snakes, and any other types of reptiles that you can think of. It is also important to note that reptiles aren’t the only symbols that many states choose to adopt. There have even been state flowers, nicknames, and even mottos! After all, how many of us have heard the phrase “Mountaineers Are Always Free” when it comes to West Virginia?

Each state is able to decide which reptile they want to represent them. Some states even had a hard time just choosing one. For example, did you know that the state of Florida actually has three different reptiles that they have chosen to represent them? Yup, it seems that the states not only get to choose which reptile they want to have represent them, but they can also choose more than one. So what do you know about the timber rattlesnake which represents West Virginia?

Let’s find out some interesting facts about this slithery snake!

Timber Rattlesnake Facts

The timber rattlesnake is also known as the American viper, black rattlesnake, and even the eastern rattlesnake. This snake is a large pit snake that is found throughout large parts of the eastern United States. This impressive rattlesnake is found throughout West Virginia, so many natives of the snake may have come across this snake on various outdoor excursions.

Size and Appearance

The overall size of this rattlesnake is quite telling. This snake has a very large and heavy body, which is not unusual for snakes that are in the pit viper family. Adult timber rattlesnakes can grow anywhere between 2.5 – 5 feet long. However, there have been reports of these snakes reaching lengths as long as seven feet! Overall, this snake is definitely not a small guy. When it comes to their appearance, you can usually recognize them because they have two distinct colors to them. Sometimes you can find them in a yellower hue, with dark chevron stripes all along their back. In addition, they can also be black and gray in color. They are also called rattlesnakes because of the rattle at the end of their tail. In fact, their rattle tail is their most distinguishing feature.

Diet

The timber rattlesnake is a carnivore, like many other snake species. When they live out in the wild, the timber rattlesnake will mostly eat small- to medium-sized animals. These usually include a number of rodents such as mice and shrews. They will also eat chipmunks and even squirrels! However, don’t start underestimating them just yet. They are also quite capable of swallowing up birds, other lizards, and even various amphibians. They are patient hunters that will wait around in the bushes, looking around for their next prey. Once they’ve cornered their prey, they will then ambush them by biting into them and injecting them with their venom.

Habitat

In West Virginia, timber rattlesnakes are known to live all throughout the state. They are pretty well spread out in fact, as you can find them in the eastern panhandle and the Alleghenies south to Mingo. These snakes are also found in the Mercer counties of the state. They are the only native rattlesnake species that the state has. Typically, these rattlesnakes will make a home out of a variety of different habitats. You can find them living in mountainous regions as well as in pinewood forests and even in swamps and marshes. Although they are typically found living on the ground, they are also quite capable of climbing trees. It is not unheard of to find a timber rattlesnake inside a tree!

Why Is the Timber Rattlesnake the State Reptile of West Virginia?

The timber rattlesnake has been chosen as the state reptile of West Virginia since 2008. But why was it chosen is the real question. Well, it seems that there were several reasons why the timber rattlesnake was chosen by the senate of the state. One of the main concessions for choosing this snake is the fact that it is so widespread throughout the state. The senate concluded that as a result, this snake is an integral part not only of the ecology of the state but also of the history and culture of West Virginia. 

West Virginia also noted that no other state has chosen the timber rattlesnake as their state reptile. As a result, the state was very proud to be the first adopter of this unique and prevalent snake as their state reptile symbol. Romney Middle School was also responsible for the decision, as it was the eighth-grade class that brought the snake up to the senate as a possible choice!

What Is the Conservation Status of the Timber Rattlesnake?

For those that are interested, the timber rattlesnake is actually listed as ‘Least Concern’ according to the IUCN Red List. This is because the snake is actually quite widespread throughout West Virginia. There is also a pretty sizeable population of these snakes and it doesn’t seem like the population is shrinking in size any time soon.

What to Do if You Come Across a Timber Rattlesnake in the Wild?

It can be a pretty scary experience to come across a timber rattlesnake while out in the wild. It’s especially scary when you consider the fact that timber rattlesnake venom is classified as a hemotoxin. As a result, getting bitten by this snake can result in a range of painful symptoms. However, luckily this snake is not particularly aggressive. This means that they won’t strike out of nowhere for no reason. Biting is usually a last resort for them when they see humans and is often done as a way to protect themselves. 

If you do happen to spot a timber rattlesnake while out in the open, your best bet is to remain calm and avoid panicking. You’ll want to stay at least five feet away from the snake to prevent them from biting you. If possible to do so safely, remove yourself from the area and alert other people to the location of the snake. When you do go outdoors for hikes or casual walks, be sure to wear appropriate clothing such as hiking boots and thick socks. It is also best to stay on trails and avoid wandering off. These snakes will most likely be around in tall grass and weeds, so it is best to avoid these areas. Also, if you happen to be near water, avoid picking up random sticks or branches while in the water. These rattlesnakes are also quite capable of swimming.

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