Very young timber rattlesnake, South Central Iowa. Population is becoming very fragmented due to people wanting to build houses on the scenic bluffs. They then act surprised when they start seing rattlesnakes in their yards. And they kill them.
People need to be educated and just leave them alone. Timber Rattlesnake's are protected in Iowa. Please don't kill or try to run them over with your car. They play a very important part in the ecosystem. Any intentional killings will be reported to the DNR and then you can pay the fine!