 The more proper name for this animal, now, is the timber
rattlesnake, but I prefer the original name, despite what scientists
have done to prove otherwise.
This beautiful snake is found in the northernmost
portion of Florida, within about 75 miles of the Georgia line, across
the entire width of the state.
This is a large rattlesnake, up to a bit beyond
6 feet, averaging around 4 feet. Ground color is from pale grayish brown
to pinkish buff. The pattern consists of dark brown to black V-shaped
cross bands, with a russet stripe down the centerline of the back.
They also have a broad, dark stripe angling back from the eye.
The tail is a velvety black. Venom toxicity varies greatly not
only from species to species, but from populations within the same species
as well. Canebrake rattlesnakes in this state have the potential
to have an even more virulent venom than the eastern diamondback's,
and should, therefore, be treated with the utmost of caution and respect.
Their habitat includes lowland areas such as
edges of marshes and swamps, where they prey primarily on rodents.
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