Ans. Yes, timber rattlesnakes are protected in Texas, prohibiting people from collecting them without a scientific collection permit. Indiscriminate killing or any other control of the species is illegal there. In fact, it is the only venomous snake that is protected in the said state. The penalty for killing the snake could attract fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment of one year. Equipment used for violating the law are subject to forfeiture.