Meet Ruffners Animal Ambassadors!: Beethoven, shortened as Betty, is our timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus). These snakes can also be known as canebrake or banded rattlesnakes and are a part of the pit viper family. Pit vipers have heat-sensitive pits or openings that allow them to seek prey and avoid predators. Though one of the most dangerous venomous snakes in Alabama, timber rattlesnakes are usually not aggressive unless threatened. Betty has been a part of Ruffners animal collection since 1997, making her over 17 years old. Timber rattlers can live up to 30 years in captivity - though that is probably rare. Because of her age, Betty is not growing as much as she used to, meaning she doesnt shed as often as a younger snake would. Just recently, Betty shed for the first time in 13 months. As you can see in the first picture, when snakes are about to shed, the scales, or eye caps, over their eyes begin to loosen and separate from the new scale underneath. We call this going opaque or going blue. This will clear up after a few days right before the snake is ready to shed, as you will see from Bettys rather impressive one in picture #2. Here at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, we do NOT believe in the old mantra the only good snake is a dead snake. All snakes play an important role in our ecosystem. For our safety and theirs, snakes, venomous and nonvenomous alike, should be avoided when encountered. However, you can see Betty safely up close in her exhibit at Ruffer Mountain Nature Preserves Tree House nature center - stop by and say hello to our mellow lady!
Posted on: Fri, 30 May 2014 21:08:24 +0000