The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Rattlesnake in West Rutland County. © Mary Droege/TNC

Please do not attempt to handle a rattlesnake yourself.The Rattlesnake Removal Program is a free service... Learn more

 

Caring for our heritage: The Timber Rattlesnake

Timber Rattlesnakes, now in decline in our region, were once part of the culture, heritage and history of New England, and were at one time found in all 13 original colonies and appeared on the flag during the American Revolution to symbolize unity. In 1987, the Timber Rattlesnake was listed as an endangered species in the state of Vermont and is legally protected from harm and harassment.

The Orianne Society, The Nature Conservancy, the VT Fish & Wildlife Department, and the VT Reptile & Amphibian Atlas are partnering to promote the recovery of Timber Rattlesnakes in Vermont. Through field research and landowner and public outreach, the partnership hopes to promote a better understanding and awareness of this critically endangered species.
Over the next two years, we will be studying the behavior and movements of Timber Rattlesnakes in West Rutland County so that we may better understand the species’ habitat needs throughout the entire season and how to best ensure their continued survival for generations to come.

These studies will help in the assessment of the status of the rattlesnake population in Vermont, to identify critical habitat the snakes use to meet their needs during the summer season, and to locate important travel corridors. To meet these objectives some snakes will be tracked using radio telemetry and followed as they move across the landscape. Many other snakes will be marked so they can be uniquely identified when they are seen in the future. Find out more.