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30/09/2020

Where are rattlesnakes found in PA?

Where are rattlesnakes found in PA?

Timber rattlesnakes inhabit the mountainous regions of Pennsylvania. They prefer upland forested areas where they forage for small mammals like mice and chipmunks. Talus slopes, rocky ledges and outcrops, and boulder fields with open, primarily southern-facing exposures, create conditions ideal for basking.

Are there venomous snakes in Western Pennsylvania?

The three species of venomous snakes in Pennsylvania are the timber rattlesnake, eastern massasauga and copperhead. Reports of venomous snakebites are rare in Pennsylvania. All three species are usually not aggressive and like to avoid humans by moving away or keeping still until the person is gone.

What time of year are rattlesnakes most active in Pennsylvania?

From early July through early September, a period of peak rattler sightings each year, males are roaming in search of mates, and may travel 5 miles or more from the winter den.

Are there rattlesnakes in Bucks County PA?

The three venomous species of snakes in Pennsylvania are the Eastern Copperhead, Timber Rattlesnake and Eastern Massasauga, according to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. In Bucks County, you’re most likely to encounter an Eastern Copperhead, though they rarely attack humans unless provoked.

Where are the most rattlesnakes in Pennsylvania?

About the timber rattlesnake The timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is the most commonly encountered venomous snake in Pennsylvania. It is found near rock outcroppings, crevices and ledges in upland forests across most of Pennsylvania.

Are there rattlesnakes in central Pennsylvania?

Timber rattlesnakes can be found in 50 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties, according to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. And York County is not free of these venomous reptiles. Recently, the Pennsylvania Amphibian and Reptile Survey confirmed 50 timber rattlesnakes sightings in the state.

What counties in PA have Copperheads?

PARS has found northern copperheads – the second most common venomous snake in Pennsylvania – in 5 of the counties without timber rattlesnakes: Allegheny, Armstrong, Bucks, Chester and Lancaster.

Are there Copperheads in Western Pennsylvania?

One of Pennsylvania’s most aggressive breeds, Copperhead snakes are the cause of thousands of rarely-fatal bites a year. Copperheads prey on small birds and snakes, lizards, amphibians, and insects. They are usually found in forests anywhere between New England and the Southwest.

How do you find a rattlesnake den?

Rattlesnake Den Locations As snakes are not capable of digging holes, it is common for rattlesnakes to make dens out of vacant rodent burrows. Snakes typically seek out locations on high hillsides with plenty of sun exposure. Rattlesnakes can spend the winter under logs and piles of wood or rock as well.

Can you shoot a rattlesnake in PA?

It is one of seven reptiles in this highest priority tier. It is therefore protected under specific regulations by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC). New regulations took effect in 2007 to increase the protection for the species. Do Not Kill a Rattlesnake!

What snakes are in Bucks County PA?

Verified Species

Common Latin #
Northern Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus 141
Eastern Ratsnake Pantherophis alleghaniensis 19
Eastern Milksnake Lampropeltis triangulum 224
Northern Watersnake Nerodia sipedon 297

Are there Copperheads in Bucks County?

A spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources told the Bucks County Courier Times that copperheads are common in Bucks County, but bites happen infrequently. Weir’s bite was the first reported in 2021 and there were seven total over the previous two years.

What types of rattlesnakes are found in Pennsylvania?

Venomous Snakes in Western Pennsylvania Copperheads. One of Pennsylvania’s most aggressive breeds, Copperhead snakes are the cause of thousands of rarely-fatal bites a year. Timber Rattlesnakes. The largest of Pennsylvania’s venomous snakes, Timber Rattlesnakes can be found in forests throughout the eastern United States. Massasauga Rattlesnakes.

What is the largest rattlesnake in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania’s timber rattler, however, reaches a maximum of five feet in Pennsylvania, averaging 36 to 54 inches. The black rat snake is the largest of Pennsylvania’s snakes, sometimes measuring 6-8 feet with documentation of individuals stretching to more than 100 inches.

What states have rattlesnakes?

The prairie rattlesnake is found in the United States, southwestern Canada and northern Mexico. In the United States, the prairie rattlesnake is the most widespread rattlesnake species. It occurs in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma,…

Are rattlesnakes illegal to kill?

Generally speaking, most rattlesnakes are not protected by law from killing in a humane manner. There are, however, some species that are protected because they are rare or endangered. While these species are not to be killed, often it can be worked out with wildlife authorities to live catch and transport to other areas.