The New Years countdown. Cities across Japan participate in this international tradition in a number of ways. Here in Tokyo, people fix their eyes on a large electric bulletin board at Tokyo Tower as it changes from 2011 to 2012.
Timber Rattlesnake Crotalus horridus. The Timber rattlesnake is sometimes mild tempered and does a good deal of rattling before striking. Commonly found in rocky wooded hills in the northern part of its range. Fatalities are known from the bite of this snake. Average length 3 feet, maximum length 6 feet.
Among timber rattlesnakes, courtship and mating occur either in the spring or in late summer. A male timber rattlesnake courts a willing female with a special three-step dance.. First he moves alongside and on top of the female. Then he starts rubbing his head and body against hers with jerky movements. Finally, he curls his tail under the female's, and mating takes place.