1) The timber rattlesnake lives in forested and swampy areas across much of the eastern US, preying mainly on small mammals. 2) Mating occurs in late summer to early fall, with young born the following summer after a 4-5 month gestation period. Litters average 4-20 snakes. 3) Timber rattlesnakes face threats from predators like coyotes and large birds, and have an average lifespan of 16-22 years in the wild, though they can live over 30 years in captivity. Parasites and lack of prey also impact mortality rates.