Gray Phase Timber Rattlesnake (photo courtesy of Will Bird)
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is a truly awe-inspiring species of serpent. They are a very impressive and intimidating snake to see in their natural habitat. One of four species of venomous species found in Kentucky and one of three in Virginia, this is the largest species of them all. They average 3-4 feet in length but are capable of reaching lengths up to 6 feet. Their coloration varies from a yellow base color to grey and almost black, but they all have black cross bands extending the length of almost the whole body.
Timber Rattlesnakes, as well as other rattlesnake species, derive their name from the rattle often found on the tip of their tail. This rattle is made up of dead skin, much like our fingernails, and every time the snake sheds its skin it adds a new button to its rattle. It is often said by old timers that you can tell how old a rattlesnake is by the number of buttons on its rattle. READ MORE
The Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) is a truly awe-inspiring species of serpent. They are a very impressive and intimidating snake to see in their natural habitat. One of four species of venomous species found in Kentucky and one of three in Virginia, this is the largest species of them all. They average 3-4 feet in length but are capable of reaching lengths up to 6 feet. Their coloration varies from a yellow base color to grey and almost black, but they all have black cross bands extending the length of almost the whole body.
Timber Rattlesnakes, as well as other rattlesnake species, derive their name from the rattle often found on the tip of their tail. This rattle is made up of dead skin, much like our fingernails, and every time the snake sheds its skin it adds a new button to its rattle. It is often said by old timers that you can tell how old a rattlesnake is by the number of buttons on its rattle. READ MORE
One of the first flowers that I was fortunate enough to come across was the Yellow Trout Lily. I found the first of these back on the first day of March at an area of the park called the Garden Hole. These are a beautiful flower that are one of the first to flower of the year. They are long gone for the year now but they will be back bright and early next spring! These are a beautiful mountain species that has a close cousin living in the flatter lands of Kentucky called the White Trout Lily. 
The first animal that I would like to share with you is a very intriguing one called the Opossum (Didelpis virginianus). These animals are cause for much confusion. What are they exactly? They look like a giant rat, they carry their babies in a pouch like a kangaroo, and can hang by their tail like a monkey!
International Migratory Bird Day is a day devoted to education on the enjoyment and conservation of migratory bird species worldwide. Occurring every spring, it takes place as migratory bird species are making their way from their southern wintering grounds back to their northern summer homes to breed and rear their young. The theme for this year is “20 Ways to Conserve Birds”.
In my humble opinion, one of the most spectacular birds of prey has to be Peregrine Falcons. Their lightning fast speed and agility in the air makes them a truly awe inspiring animal. They really are a beautiful bird, and one can count themselves very lucky to view these majestic animals.