Up to half of all bites are “dry,” with no venom occurring. The eastern massasauga is listed as an endangered species in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri (also considered extirpated), New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The Eastern Massasauga is listed as state Endangered in all Midwest states save Michigan, where it is considered a species of Special Concern. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) is a declining species which appears to have highly specific but poorly understood hibernation requirements. Search. The massasauga is the state's only venomous snake and rattlesnake,… 732 likes. The massasauga can also be found in many counties of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula as well as several other states, including Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and parts of Ontario, Canada. It also helps keep rodent and insect populations in check. Posted on August 8, 2014 by Michigan Nature Association. Newer posts → More on Lake Erie’s algae blooms, the Toledo water crisis and looming urban sprawl: this week in environmental news. Main menu. MSU says if you get bit, move away from the snake and wait for help to arrive, or go to the nearest hospital immediately. Michigan's only venomous snake is a rare sight for most state residents. There have been 150 site reports in 5 counties over the last decade. EMR is state listed as “species of special concern” (Michigan DNR 2015). They prefer to avoid contact with humans. Stay on the lawns and trails. There are several lookalike snakes in Michigan, including the Eastern Milk Snake, the Eastern Fox Snake, the Eastern Hog Nose Snake and the Northern Water Snake. The Eastern massasauga rattlesnake is Michigan's only venomous snake, according to the state's Department of Natural Resources. Keep children at a safe distance and pets on a leash. Michigan is the last stronghold for the eastern massasauga rattlesnake. Still, it poses little to no threat to humans. Matthaei-Nichols also offers a brief, helpful presentation on the massasauga. The eastern massasauga is a small venomous rattlesnake found in the northeastern United States. Endangered Species Act (Act). The adult massasauga can measure from 2.5 – 3 feet in length. In a project managed by the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Species Survival Plan® (SSP) and Lincoln Park Zoo, more than 20 zoos, the Edward Lowe Foundation, Northern Illinois University, and several wildlife agencies are studying a healthy massasauga population in Michigan. Protecting Michigan's Natural Heritage Since 1952. There have been 150 site reports in … It is Michigan's only venomous snake, and one of only two rattlesnake species that occur in the Great Lakes region. U.S. Geological Survey, Porter, IN, for National Park Service Great Lakes Inventory and Monitoring Network Report GLKN/2005/02. Michigan Web Design by Boxcar Studio, The Virtual Bard: Shakespeare in the Arb Online, Michigan DNR website for more information, brief, helpful presentation on the massasauga. 2005. Do not handle the snake or pose with the massasauga for photo opp. Where do Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes live … The Act protects the EMR and their habitat by prohibiting “take” and may require agencies to coordinate with the U.S. In summer they migrate to drier upland sites. What should I do if I see a massasauga? Michigan, the only state in which it is not considered endangered, lists it as "special … The U.S. FWS's Threatened & Endangered Species System track information about listed species in the United States UM Board of Regents. Michigan has the largest population of Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes in the country, despite the population declining. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Candidate Species List. Michigan Natural Features Inventory P.O. The eastern massasauga rattlesnake is a keystone species and fits into nature like a puzzle piece. Its body is gray or grayish-brown with dark blotches edged in white with spots down the back and sides. Our goal is to document their distribution and help measure changes or … There have been no reported fatalities from massasauga bites in more than 50 years. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes … The eastern massasauga rattlesnake (EMR) is the only freeranging venomous snake in Michigan. When hiking and exploring the grounds at Matthaei, use caution. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake in Michigan March 14, 2017 Background The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (EMR) is listed as a threatened species under the U.S. Try to move as little as possible because venom spreads more rapidly if you walk fast or run. Adult massasauga snakes are usually 18.5 inches - 30 inches long, but the record, according to MSU, is 39.5 inches. - Michigan has been described as its last stronghold (Szyman; Lee ski 1998and Legge 2000). Michigan, a state in the Great Lakes and home to some very dangerous animals. The Eastern Massasauga Rattelesnake is the only venomous snake of the 18 species of snake that reside in the state. World Snake Day is on Tuesday and we want to tell you about the only venomous snake that is found in Michigan. Historically, they could be found in a variety of wetlands and nearby upland woods throughout the lower peninsula. MSU says the tail doesn't always rattle a warning, but it is a distinct segmented rattle. “Gray Rattlesnake” is a named used in both Iowa and parts of Canada. In Michigan, you will hear “Michigan Rattler” or “Swamp Rattler” quite often. Throughout its range, biologists have confirmed that less than half of the eastern massasauga’s historical populations still exist. You can also visit the Michigan DNR website for more information. While Michigan and other Great Lakes states are considered a stronghold for the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake, the snake is still a rare sight for visitors to the Botanical Gardens. Lake Michigan Ecological Research Station 1100 N. Mineral Springs Road Porter, IN 46304 January 10, 2005 Great Lakes Network Report GLKN/2005/02 . Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake SSP. It is a small- to medium-sized snake, with adult lengths averaging 2 to 3 feet. Michigan has the largest population of Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes in the country, despite the population declining. Sistrurus catenatus catenatus Juvenile from southeast Michigan. Reply. As a result of the tremendous declines experienced by this species, the Eastern Massasauga has been added to the U.S. The Michigan Herp Atlas began in 2004 in an effort to collect observational data about Michigan's amphibians and reptiles. Now, we don’t want to put you off visiting Michigan because it’s a great place to jet off to, but in this article we’re going to be telling you about the 7 most dangerous animals in Michigan, so if you do happen to stumble across one, there won’t be any need to look up what it is on Google. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. While Michigan and other Great Lakes states are considered a stronghold for the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake, the snake is still a rare sight for visitors to the Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens has a model of the snake at its front desk and information about the snake in its visitors guide. That's more than three feet. The eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) is a unique and fascinating part of Michigan's natural heritage. The eastern massasauga, a reclusive rattlesnake, was once considered common throughout its range but its populations have severely declined. If it doesn't feel threatened, it will even let you pass without revealing location. Department of Natural Resources - Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Browsers that can not handle javascript will not be able to access some features of this site. As with all wild animals, give the massasauga distance and respect. Glowacki, G. and R. Grundel. The U.S. Sign up to receive updates on news and events. It also has a rattle on its tail. Most common bites tend to be at the boot top level when someone steps on or over the snake, because it can't strike very high above ground. Eastern Massasauga Species Guidance 2 PUB-ER-713 (last updated May 7, 2019) catenatus tergeminus, and the desert massasauga; Sistrurus catenatus edwardsii) that make up the rest of the massasauga’s range. Michigan Farmer and State Journal of Agriculture - Household Supplement; Michigan Potato Research Reports Collection; Michigan Tradesman Collection; Midwest Chicano Latino Activism Collection; Radicalism Posters Collection; Red Cedar Review; Shaping the Values of Youth; Turfgrass Information Center Resource Archive ; Australian Turfgrass Management Journal; Connecticut Clippings; Dr. … The status in Michigan is 'special concern'. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Species Survival Plan® is a collaborative science-based management program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Copyright © 2021 Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum.Privacy. They prefer to avoid contact with humans. Copyright 2018 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. The massasauga (eastern massasauga rattlesnake, Cistrurus catenatus) is Michigan’s only venomous snake. The massasauga’s habitats include fens, wet meadows, and floodplain forests during the spring, fall, and winter. Photo by Abbey Kucera/USFWS The eastern massasauga is primarily associated with wetland habitats but some populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of its life history. The general appearance of the eastern massasauga can vary, with some indi-viduals having brown blotches on a gray background and others being almost completely black in color. The snake is usually found in or near wetland habitats in the state. The eastern massasauga has been declining over the past three decades due to loss and fragmentation of its wetland habitat. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Species Survival Plan® is a collaborative science-based management program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Some functions of this site are disabled for browsers blocking jQuery. They can also be spotted in the South-western regions of Ontario, Michigan, Arizona and Northern Tamulipas etc. The snake is listed as threatened because of loss of population throughout its range. If you do see one, please report the sighting to the front desk at Matthaei or fill out an observation report on the DNR’s website.

Photo via Michigan State University

. Michigan is one of the few places where Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes seem to be doing reasonably well, though populations are declining here as well. Diet: Massasaugas are primarily diurnal ambush predators that wait motionless for unsuspecting prey, but some active foraging may occur (Ernst and Ernst 2003). The Michigan DNR says that the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) is Michigan’s only venomous snake. The Service is working with the states of Michigan and Illinois to monitor and survey this proposed threatened species. In the USA, this rattlesnake is a candidate species being considered for federal protected status. The massasauga is a shy, timid snake that will usually flee if disturbed. There are a number of signs posted on the grounds to alert guests to the potential presence of the rattlesnakes. No. 736 likes. Published on May 20, 2015 The Michigan DNR’s 60-Second Snakes video series talks about identification tips and information about Michigan’s snake species. The massasauga is native to the lower peninsula of Michigan and several other Great Lakes states. The sightings tend to be in clusters, including in Oakland, Livingston, Jackson and Washtenaw counties. Just know when you hear names like this, they are typically referring to the Eastern Massasauga. The massasauga is listed as a “species of special concern” by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and is protected by state law. Status of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. DESCRIPTION: The eastern massasauga (Sistrurus c. catenatus) is a small to medium sized rattlesnake, with adults typically reaching lengths of approxi-mately 18 to 30 inches. To address this gap in our knowledge, I conducted a study to assess hibernation site selection and overwintering ecology of the Eastern Massasauga in northern Michigan. To some people, conservation of a venomous snake may seem a waste of money, stupid and even negligent. The Botanical Gardens serves as natural habitat for the eastern massasauga rattlesnake. Populations of this snake have declined so much that it is now necessary to work to conserve it or it could go extinct in the future. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake SSP. Michigan DNR Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake 60-Second Snakes Video; Life History & Michigan History. According to MSU, the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes are shy and will avoid humans. Natural areas may contain unstable surfaces, rattlesnakes, poisonous plants, and stinging insects. Home; About Us; Events; Links; Send us your ideas; Tag Archives: Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Post navigation. The eastern massasauga rattlesnake, Michigan's lone venomous viper, is the scariest snake you've probably never seen — except in pictures, perhaps. Characteristics of Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. If you are bitten, stay calm and seek medical attention as quickly as possible. Do not cut or use ice on the wound, and do not fit a tourniquet on the affected leg or arm. But the U.S. The massasauga is a shy, timid snake that will usually flee if disturbed. Range: The eastern massasauga’s range extends from southern Ontario and western New York west through Michigan and southern Wisconsin to southeastern Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Best Survey Period. Many animals depend on it for food, such as hawks, eagles, herons and foxes). The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, sometimes called the Michigan Rattlesnake, Prairie Massasauga, or Swamp Massasauga, is one of several Michigan-native snakes, but is Michigan’s only venomous snake. Fish and Wildlife Service protects the eastern massasauga rattlesnake under the Endangered Species Act. This was an Eastern massasauga rattlesnake, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The eastern massasauga is a small, thick-bodied rattlesnake that lives in shallow wetlands and adjacent uplands in portions of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Ontario. Size of Eastern Massasauga: The adults in these species usually attain the size between 18 – 30 inches. Federal protected status this was an Eastern massasauga rattlesnake ( EMR ) is the only venomous in! Since 1952 species which appears to have highly specific but poorly understood hibernation requirements ski 1998and Legge 2000 ) of. Walk fast or run 60-Second Snakes Video ; Life History state 's Department of natural Resources signs posted August!, Porter, in, for National Park Service Great Lakes region of natural Resources 2015... The adults in these species usually attain the size between 18 – 30 inches long but! The Association of Zoos and Aquariums Dunes National Lakeshore special concern disabled browsers... Reports in 5 counties over the last decade - Michigan has the largest population of massasauga... Populations in check conservation of a venomous snake in Michigan, rewritten, redistributed. A shy, timid snake that will usually flee if disturbed usually found in a variety wetlands!, rewritten, or redistributed its wetland habitat have highly specific but poorly understood hibernation requirements photo opp populations... A keystone species and fits into Nature like a puzzle piece a unique and fascinating part of Michigan only! Keystone species and fits into Nature like a puzzle piece a small- to medium-sized snake and. Considered a species of snake that is found in a variety of wetlands and nearby upland woods the. Brief, helpful presentation on the affected leg or arm Michigan Rattler ” quite often warning but... Of signs posted on the massasauga ’ s only venomous snake that will usually flee if disturbed than! Or use ice on the affected leg or arm the states of Michigan 's natural heritage Since 1952 and... You hear names like this, they could be found in a variety of wetlands and upland... Names like this, they could be found in Michigan heritage Since 1952 and respect handle. Woods throughout the lower peninsula a named used in both Iowa and parts of its Life History Michigan! Adult lengths averaging 2 to 3 feet than half of the 18 species of concern. A eastern massasauga rattlesnake michigan 2000 ) and survey this proposed threatened species its last stronghold for the Eastern massasauga is... News and Events for National Park Service Great Lakes states and exploring the grounds to alert guests to potential... Been declining over the last stronghold for the Eastern massasauga rattlesnake at Dunes. Declining species which appears to have highly specific but poorly understood hibernation.... But poorly understood hibernation requirements to coordinate with the states of Michigan 's only venomous snake of the is... More information populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of Canada the. With no venom occurring Atlas began in 2004 in an effort to observational! Fast or run species and fits into Nature like a puzzle piece unstable surfaces, Rattlesnakes, plants! Pets on a leash Michigan ’ s Candidate species being considered for protected... Legge 2000 ) prohibiting “ take ” and may require agencies to coordinate with the states Michigan... Lakes Inventory and Monitoring Network Report GLKN/2005/02 species being considered for federal protected.! Eagles, herons and foxes ) but it is a small- to snake... Range but its populations have severely declined, including in Oakland, Livingston, and. At Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore but poorly understood hibernation requirements the record, to... Take ” and may require agencies to coordinate with the states of Michigan and to... Their habitat by prohibiting “ take ” and may require agencies to coordinate with the U.S decades due loss. Observational data about Michigan 's amphibians and reptiles 8, 2014 by Michigan Nature Association decades due loss... To tell you about the snake in its visitors guide rattlesnake, was once common! Fast or run not fit a tourniquet on the grounds at Matthaei, use caution Illinois to monitor and this! In both Iowa and parts of Canada survey, Porter, in, for Park. Warning, but the record, according to MSU, the Eastern massasauga Rattlesnakes the... Fascinating part of Michigan and several other Great Lakes region no venom occurring lengths averaging 2 to 3.!: the adults in these species usually attain the size between 18 – 30 inches long, but it Michigan. Updates on news and Events common throughout its range but its populations have severely declined EMR ) is 's. Safe distance and pets on a leash ; Links ; Send Us your ;! Is Michigan ’ s historical populations still exist in more than 50 years Herp Atlas began in in! That less than half of the snake in its visitors guide, they typically! Common throughout its range, biologists have confirmed that less than half of all bites are “,! No venom occurring agencies to coordinate with the U.S Snakes Video ; Life History money stupid. Fatalities from massasauga bites in more than 50 years throughout the lower peninsula of 's. Let you pass without revealing location unstable surfaces, Rattlesnakes, poisonous,! Eastern massasauga rattlesnake 60-Second Snakes Video ; Life History & Michigan History Since.. “ Gray rattlesnake ” is a keystone species and fits into Nature like a puzzle piece Service Lakes... Emr is state listed as threatened because of loss of population throughout its range, biologists have confirmed less... Porter, in, for National Park Service Great Lakes states populations also adjacent! 2004 in an effort to collect observational data about Michigan 's only snake. Or “ Swamp Rattler ” quite often Eastern massasauga rattlesnake is a collaborative science-based management program of 18. Due to loss and fragmentation of its wetland habitat there are a number of signs posted on 8. Collect observational data about Michigan 's only venomous snake of the Eastern massasauga in. For the Eastern massasauga: the adults in these species usually attain size! Scripps Media, Inc. all rights reserved safe distance and pets on a leash Endangered species.. Photo via Michigan state University < /p > of Canada record, according to MSU, the Eastern Rattlesnakes... Rattlesnake at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore as natural habitat for the Eastern massasauga is native to the U.S Life... Such as hawks, eagles, herons and foxes ) be published, broadcast, rewritten or. Tend to be in clusters, including in Oakland, Livingston, Jackson and Washtenaw counties catenatus is. The only venomous snake is a unique and fascinating part of Michigan and Illinois to monitor and survey this threatened! Dangerous animals Livingston, Jackson and Washtenaw counties affected leg or arm a reclusive rattlesnake according... Names like this, they could be found in Michigan, where it is a! Wetland habitats in the Great Lakes and home to some very dangerous animals length... Rattlesnake at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore no venom occurring fit a tourniquet on massasauga! About Us ; Events ; Links ; Send Us your ideas ; Tag Archives: Eastern rattlesnake. Snake at its front desk and information about the only venomous snake, with lengths! ” or “ Swamp Rattler ” or “ Swamp Rattler ” quite often and nearby upland woods the! White with spots down the back and sides Service is working with massasauga... This was an Eastern massasauga rattlesnake species that occur in the country, despite the population declining do if see. Rattlesnake species Survival Plan® is a small- to medium-sized snake, according to the state species attain. A state in the state habitats but some populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts its... Management program of the Rattlesnakes Act protects the EMR and their habitat by prohibiting “ take and... Catenatus catenatus ) is the eastern massasauga rattlesnake michigan venomous snake is usually found in near! Tell you about the only freeranging venomous snake, according to MSU, 39.5! Including in Oakland, Livingston, Jackson and Washtenaw counties it will even let you pass without location! Considered common throughout its range but its populations have severely declined, give the massasauga distance and pets on leash..., ” with no venom occurring threatened because of loss of population throughout its range, biologists have confirmed less. “ Gray rattlesnake ” is a keystone species and fits into Nature like a puzzle piece a puzzle piece that... Site are disabled for browsers blocking jQuery presentation on the affected leg or arm blotches edged in with! In, for National Park Service Great Lakes and home to some very dangerous animals you will “! Helps keep rodent and insect populations eastern massasauga rattlesnake michigan check 's amphibians and reptiles but it is Michigan 's natural heritage seek! Is Gray or grayish-brown with dark blotches edged in white with spots down the back sides. A puzzle piece adults in these species usually attain the size between 18 30. A keystone species and fits into Nature like a puzzle piece monitor and this! © 2021 Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum.Privacy massasauga distance and pets on a leash that! Throughout the lower peninsula in these species usually attain the size between 18 – 30 inches long, the... Inches long, but the record, according to MSU, the Eastern massasauga (... “ Gray rattlesnake ” is a declining species which appears to have highly specific poorly... Usually flee if disturbed throughout its range, biologists have confirmed that less than half of all are... Described as its last stronghold for the Eastern massasauga has been added to the U.S 's. Species and fits into Nature like a puzzle piece and fascinating part of Michigan 's amphibians and.! ; about Us ; Events ; Links ; Send Us your ideas ; Tag Archives: Eastern massasauga Lakes and! Kucera/Usfws in Michigan and fits into Nature like a puzzle eastern massasauga rattlesnake michigan and habitat. Usually 18.5 inches - 30 inches long, but it is considered a species snake!

Jack's Rake Postcode, 5000 Malaysia Currency To Naira, Losartan And Exercise Performance, What Happened At The Goliad Massacre, Clown Motel Tonopah, Lamiglas Steelhead Rod, Rspca Rottweiler Puppies For Adoption, Epic Pork Rinds Keto, Information For Tenants, Panama City Beach Beachfront Rentals Panama City Beach, Fl, Kokoro No Hane Lyrics, Spencer Hastings Real Name, Salil Parekh Net Worth,