Watch Your Step, Timber Rattlesnakes Are Emerging From Their Dens Around Missouri
Spring’s all about rebirth. Flowers blooming. Sun shining. The return of wildlife — from the ruby-throated hummingbirds gathering around our feeders to spring peepers singing outside of our windows. It also signals the return of the timber rattlesnake in Missouri. Here’s what you need to know to keep safe when you’re out exploring.
Timber rattlesnakes begin emerging from their dens, usually around the end of April, which means you’ll soon be seeing them when you’re out and about exploring Missouri.
Missouri’s most venomous snake, the timber rattlesnake is found in most parts of the state, although most tend to camouflage themselves to avoid discovery.
After emerging from their dens for the season, timber rattlesnakes either begin the process of mating immediately or usually from mid-July through August.
Babies are usually born from the end of the summer through the beginning of October, with moms typically having an average of eight babies per litter. Timber rattlesnakes usually mate every other year, starting at the age of four.
While you may see timber rattlesnakes sunning themselves on rocks in the spring and in the fall, you probably won’t see many, if any, during the summer. Timber rattlesnakes typically roam at night during the summer months.
Unfortunately, the population of timber rattlesnakes has gotten smaller in recent years, due to both human and animal predators. The snakes are often prey to owls, hawks, and skunks.
If you’re concerned about running into a timber rattlesnake, or any type of snake, when you’re outdoors, keep a few things in mind. Wear, for example, loose pants and high boots.
Before you go to sit down on a rock, on the ground, or elsewhere, look around first to make sure there’s not a snake hidden. If you see a snake that looks dead, leave it alone.
Have you seen any timber rattlesnakes in Missouri yet this year? Let us know in the comments! Have you heard the spring peepers singing in Missouri yet this spring? (Isn’t it one of the most lovely sounds in nature?)
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