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Along the rocky edges and shorelines of Lake Jocassee the shy timber rattlesnake can be found resting quietly in its favorite coiled position. This is a cold blooded, venomous, ambush predator with a wide, triangular-shaped head. The end of its tail is black with a segmented rattle, active during warmer months and is commonly seen in July and August when it is seeking a mate. A timber rattlesnake waits for long periods of time for unsuspecting animals to scurry within striking distance. Mice, chipmunks, squirrels, rabbits or even a bird that gets too close can become prey. In turn, a timber rattlesnake can be preyed upon by raptors, coyotes, bobcats, wild turkeys and kingsnakes. Timber rattlesnakes are protected by state law in S.C., and it is illegal to kill, take or possess them on public lands surrounding Lake Jocassee, including state parks and National Forests. ~Deborah Girard, JLT Naturalist Guide