Observation of an Interaction between an Allegheny Woodrat (Neotoma magister) and a Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) in Pennsylvania

Abstract

Neotoma magister (Allegheny Woodrat) is a threatened species in Pennsylvania and listed as Endangered in 4 of 5 bordering states. Declining food resources, genetic isolation, habitat fragmentation, disease, and increasing predator populations are considered the primary threats to Allegheny Woodrat populations. Herein, we share an observation captured on a wildlife camera of an adult woodrat displaying agonistic behavior toward a small Crotalus horridus (Timber Rattlesnake).