Canebrake Rattlesnake

Crotalus horridus

The canebrake rattlesnake is 1 of 3 rattlesnake species found in Florida. They are also referred to as Timber rattlesnakes in the northern portion of their range. These gorgeous creatures rival the Eastern Diamondback when it comes to size and beauty, but how do they differ? Let’s get the facts!

Identification

The Canebrake averages 30 to 60 inches with a record of 6 feet long. Males are larger than females. They are a heavy body snake with a deep red to brownish stripe that runs down the back that is broken up by large dark bands. The background color of these snakes is often a pale pink to peach color. Being a pit vipers, the head is triangular and has the facial pit (Loreal pit) located between the eye and the nose.

Range & Habitat

Juvenile Canebrake rattlesnakes closely resemble adults. They are 10 to 15 inches long when born with a single button (rattle) at the tip of the tail.

Females take five years to reach sexual maturity. Breeding occurs in the fall, and females delay fertilization allowing 6 to 18 live neonates (baby snakes) born in the summer.

Diet is mostly made up of various rodents like rats, mice, voles, and squirrels.

Let’s compare the Eastern Diamond to the Canebrake rattlesnake!

The decline in the Canebrake, as well as the eastern Diamond, is due to habitat loss, car strikes, and rattlesnake roundups that resulted in the killing of these impressive reptiles that play an important role in the environment. Remember, most bites from venomous snakes are provoked by humans while trying to harm or kill the snake.

Did you know that venom has several benefits in the biomedical field? Venom research has led to medical breakthroughs and has been used to treat cancer, high blood pressure, kidney stones, strokes, diabetes, and more!