1991. He never feared for his safety, he said. Unpublished report to the U.S. Two Michigan residents were bitten by a rare rattlesnake in one month, an incident the Department of Natural Resources says is unusual. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local. They say that Massasaugas are found throughout the Lower Peninsula, but not in the Upper Peninsula and that they are becoming rare in many parts of their former range, due to wetland habitat loss and persecution by humans. Lake Michigan Ecological Research Station 1100 N. Mineral Springs Road Porter, IN 46304 January 10, 2005 Great Lakes Network Report GLKN/2005/02. Siegfried & Roy brought a glitz and glamour to the … These snakes are most commonly found in rocky areas in the arid Nevada climate, however the Great Basin Rattlesnake is a habitat generalist and can be found … They have also been listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. Beltz, E. 1992. He didn’t try to come toward me, didn’t try to get off of the paddle, he was just totally chill.”. Univ. On the same day, they encountered a tail-slapping beaver and stumbled upon a buck. Anyone who is bitten should seek professional medical attention. Metro Toronto Zoo, Ontario, Canada. Master's Thesis: Habitat utilization, diet and behavior of the eastern massasauga (S. c. catenatus) in southern Michigan. This timid species is extremely reclusive and avoids humans as best it can, preferring to remain camouflaged or leave the area … Eastern massasaugas have been found in a variety of wetland habitats, including bogs, fens, shrub swamps, wet meadows, marshes, moist grasslands, wet prairies, and floodplain forests (Hallock 1990, Harding 1997). Interestingly, the Southern tip of the state is the only place you will find the other species on this list. Historically, eastern massasaugas were found throughout the Lower Peninsula and on Bois Blanc Island. The most recent information on mean home ranges for massasaugas in Wisconsin and Missouri is 9 acres for females, 13 for gravid females, 95 for males, and 2 for neonates (Durbian et al. With the death of Siegfried Fischbacher so closes the last chapter to one of the most unique show biz productions on the planet. Reptiles are found throughout Michigan, although the only venomous species, the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, is seen only in the Lower Peninsula. The groundwater, which feeds these wetlands, allows the snakes to maintain their body temperature above freezing. Mating occurs in the spring, summer and fall (Reinert 1981, Vogt 1981, Harding 1997). Unpublished report to the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 3 Office, Fort Snelling, MN. 136 pp. Massasaugas have not been reported from Branch, Ingham, Shiawassee, Macomb, Huron, Clare, Oscoda, Montmorency and Emmet counties since prior to 1980 (some since the early 1900's). The snake is usually solid black or blue/blue gray in color. The young are born enclosed in a thin egg sac from which they soon emerge. He “freaked out.” But not in the way many people would. Spatial ecology, habitat preference, and habitat management of the eastern massasauga, Sistrurus c. catenatus, in a New York weakly-minerotrophic peatland. BROOKLYN, MI – Jonathan Hotham came across a large snake while kayaking with his wife Jessica earlier this month. Nat. Young massasaugas are more dependent on cold-blooded prey, particularly frogs (Vogt 1981). 8 pp. Stick: Tom Goniea, a fisheries biologist and herptile expert with the Michigan Department … They sound their rattle when alarmed but will occasionally strike without rattling when surprised. Although it's venomous, the massasauga is a timid snake. Glowacki, G. and R. Grundel. Massasaugas spend most of the time in the spring basking on elevated sites such as sedge and grass hummocks, muskrat and beaver lodges, or dikes and other embankments. They have a heart-shaped head and vertical pupils – not the type of snake that you’ll want to bump into. Legge, J. T. and M. R. Rabe. However, the rattlesnake that you find in Alabama is likely to be a different species to the one you would find in California. 222pp. In Wisconsin, King (1997) documented only gravid females dispersing to the drier uplands to have their young, while the males and non-gravid females remained in the wetlands. The northern ring neck's signature mark however is a brightly colored yellow or orange … It is protected as a federally threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. “I was like, ‘No way!’” he said. Note to readers: if you purchase something through one of our affiliate links we may earn a commission. Here's a look at every snake that calls Michigan home. This species tends to hibernate singly or in small groups of two or three (Johnson and Menzies 1993). Thus, the eastern massasauga's long-term viability in Michigan has important implications for this species' persistence rangewide. They also will consume other snake species and occasionally birds and frogs. Szymanski, J. 105: 393-395. Massasaugas also are commonly killed by humans. Nearly one- third of the historical occurrences in the state has not been reconfirmed in the past ten years. Habitat changes and trends affecting selected populations of Sistrurus catenatus catenatus (eastern massasauga) in Michigan. The eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) is a unique and fascinating part of Michigan's natural heritage. He estimates the snake was 27 to 29 inches long. If an individual kills one, it is considered a violation of the Endangered Species Act, unless the individual feels his or her life is in danger, they said. Three subspecies are currently recognized including the nominate subspecies described here. TOLEDO BLADE (Michigan) 07 April 03 Michigan seeks reports of rattlesnake sightings Lansing: The Michigan Department of Natural Re|sources asks residents to report all eastern massasauga rattlesnake observations in Michigan as part of a multi-state effort in cooperation with the U.S. This snake doesn't get very big, only about 10 to 20 inches in length, but it is easy to identify it when it is seen. Specifically, all known sites appear to be characterized by the following: (1) open, sunny areas intermixed with shaded areas, presumably for thermoregulation; (2) presence of the water table near the surface for hibernation; and (3) variable elevations between adjoining lowland and upland habitats (Beltz 1992). The eastern massasauga is primarily associated with wetland habitats but some populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of its life history. The adult massasauga rattlesnake is thick-bodied and can be 18 to … Preliminary findings of a habitat use and movement patterns study of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake in Wisconsin. King (1997) reported mean home ranges of approximately 5 to 7 acres for neonates and gravid females, 17 acres for non-gravid females and 398 acres for males. These small rattlesnakes are shy and reclusive, and are seldom seen This snake is seen so seldom that there is much that most state residents do not know about these pit vipers. Pp. Sharks are common, big fish are common, but seeing an endangered animal – it’s definitely the rarest sight we’ve seen,” Jonathan said. J. of Wildl. Reproduction by the massasauga (S. c. catenatus). Michigan appears to be the last stronghold for this species with more massasauga populations currently than any other state or province within the species' range. 1994. A. Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee, WI. In Season of the Massasauga Rattler!, Jonathan Schechter writes that the massasauga likes our sun-soaked trails in the waning days of summer and early autumn, so you may catch a glimpse of one if you’re out and about in Lower Michigan. Johnson, B. and V. Menzies, eds. 1990. These include Oakland, Livingston, Jackson and Washtenaw counties in southeast Michigan, Allegan, Barry and Kalamazoo counties in southwest Michigan, and Iosco, Crawford and Kalkaska counties in northern Michigan. Eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) biology, status, and management: A guide for recovery. Reinert, H. K. and W. R. Kodrich. The massasauga rattlesnake is Michigan's only venomous snake. 378 pp. When it is disturbed or encountered in open habitat, the massasauga prefers to move to a more hidden location. Seigel, R. A. The Michigan DNR page on the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake … Amer. 2008. MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Manage.72(3):754-759. In the middle of a 14-hour kayak fishing journey, the Hothams, who live in Napoleon, spotted the snake while paddling through Cleveland Lake near Brooklyn. Massasaugas feed primarily on small mammals such as voles, moles, jumping mice, and shrews. The eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) is a unique and fascinating part of Michigan's natural heritage. Therefore, massasaugas may still be present in areas that lack recent, as well as historical, records. Other studies have reported mean home ranges of 0.65 acres to 95 acres (Reinert and Kodrich 1982, Johnson 1995, Moore and Gillingham 2006, Durbian et al. Currently the Massasuaga rattlesnake is listed in Michigan under Special Concern and is a candidate for federal listing. It is best described as a buzzing sound, similar to one made by a bee stuck in a spider web. Sasha Tetzlaff and Mike Ravesi, graduate students at Purdue University, are tracking … Moore and Gillingham (2006) followed the general movement patterns of massasaugas at a fen in Michigan and found emergence from hibernacula occurred in early to mid-April, then the snakes moved out of buckthorn dominated scrub\shrub or lowland hardwood floodplain to open and slightly higher elevation (approximately 5015m) emergent or scrub/shrub wetland during summer. This snake is seen so seldom that there is much that most state residents do not know about these pit vipers. These small rattlesnakes are shy and reclusive, and are seldom seen This snake is seen so seldom that there is much that most state residents do not know about these pit vipers. Still, it poses little to no threat to humans. His goal is to catch a shark longer than his 14-foot kayak. Amphibians and reptiles of the Great Lakes region. To report sightings and learn more about the massasauga, please visit the Michigan DNR’s page on the species at Eastern massasauga. U.S. Geological Survey, Porter, IN, for National Park Service Great Lakes Inventory and Monitoring … Two Michigan residents bitten by rare rattlesnake in one month The Hothams aren’t foreign to nature. “We’ve seen some crazy things. 16: 162-171. Reptiles are cold-blooded, and so usually pass the cold winters of Michigan … Status assessment for the eastern massasauga (Sistrurus c. catenatus). Individuals tend to return to the same hibernation site each year (Prior 1991). Within the last decade, eastern massasaugas have been reported from about 150 sites in 50 counties. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your California Privacy Rights (each updated 1/1/21). Massasauga home range patterns in the Midwest. Currently the Massasuaga rattlesnake is listed in Michigan under Special Concern and is a candidate for federal listing. Michigan poison control centers report about 16 massasauga bites in a typical year. Reinert, H. K. 1981. Klauber, L.M. The Michigan DNR says that the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) is Michigan’s only venomous snake. Summary of recent sightings of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake (S. c. catenatus) in Michigan and identification of significant population clusters. Rattlesnake bites, while rare in Michigan, can and do occur. 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. 1998. Female massasaugas reach sexual maturity at three or four years of age, after which they have been reported to reproduce both annually and biennially in different parts of their range (Reinert 1981, Seigel 1986, Harding 1997). “But I was stoked. Also, massasaugas are highly cryptic and difficult to observe in its natural habitat. Most people in Michigan may never even see a massasauga in the wild because of its secretive behavior. Vogt, R. C. 1981. The rattle sound of the massasauga is different than the traditional sound of other rattlesnake species. 40 pp. It is Michigan's only venomous snake, and one of only two rattlesnake species that occur in the Great Lakes region. 1982. These sightings appear to cluster in several regions across the Lower Peninsula, indicating areas where massasaugas may be concentrated. Jonathan decided to catch it in his fishing net. It prefers to avoid detection by hiding under vegetation, woody debris or other cover or remaining motionless and relying on its cryptic coloration. The snakes are often found in open wetlands without many trees or shrubs nearby and they primarily exist in Ontario, Canada and Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Date Visible Max Height Appears Disappears Share Event; Sun Jan 17, 7:38 PM: 1 min: 21° 10° above SSW: 21° above S : Mon Jan 18, 6:51 PM: 3 min: 21° 10° … The Hothams aren’t foreign to nature. Rattlesnakes can be found in almost every U.S. state. Like all rattlesnakes, it is a pit viper, and like all pit vipers, it is venomous If you are reading this in your Facebook app, use this link to view the entire gallery of photos. Hallock, L. A. It is unusual for the species to strike unless it is directly disturbed (Johnson and Menzies 1993), and bites to humans are rare. Studies to date also have found that massasaugas were not be able to survive the winter when moved to a new area outside their home range presumably because they were not able to find suitable hibernation sites. All rights reserved (About Us). 32 pp. Massasaugas usually hibernate in the wetlands in crayfish or small mammal burrows. This seasonal shift in habitat use appears to vary regionally and among populations (Szymanski 1998). The University of Michigan Press, Ann Arbor, MI. In mid-October, snakes returned back to their hibernacula in lowland hardwood floodplain. On the same day, they encountered a tail-slapping beaver and stumbled upon a buck. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake: A massasauga rattlesnake is a small snake with a thick body that can grow in length up to 2 feet! RSS Bookmark Share.. Embed Print Favorite . During the late spring, these snakes move from their winter hibernation sites, … He also recorded mean range lengths of 0.03 mile for neonates, 0.2 mile for non-gravid females, 0.4 mile for gravid females, and 0.8 mile for males. + appendix. Fish and Wildlife Service, Green Bay, WI. Prior, K. A. Midl. Natural predators for the massasauga, particularly the eggs and young, include hawks, skunks, raccoons, and foxes (Vogt 1981). 155-164 in Fifteenth North American Prairie Conference Proceedings, edited by C. Warwick. Michigan has the largest population of Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes in the country, despite the population declining. 2008). The Michigan DNR has confirmed the first ever sighting of a cougar in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Movements and habitat utilization by the massasauga, S. c. catenatus. They’ve gone kayak fishing in the Florida Keys in the past, where Jonathan caught a 7- to 9-foot, 200-pound lemon shark. Status of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. "'You should have killed it,' or ‘I would have killed it.’ It’s really unfortunate.”, Two Michigan residents bitten by rare rattlesnake in one month. of Zool., Michigan State Univ., E. Lansing, MI. The females give birth to litters of 5 to 20 live young in August or early September in mammal burrows or fallen logs in the uplands (Vogt 1981, Harding 1997). Subscribe to MLive.com. This timid species is extremely reclusive and avoids humans as best it can, preferring to remain camouflaged or … 1999. Roy Horn died in May of 2020 due to complications from Covid-19. “He was totally happy just sitting there and being out of the water. 17 pp. Siegfried & his longtime partner Roy Horn (Siegfried & Roy) were a mainstay and a must see in Vegas for decades. of Calif. Press, Berkeley. From Michigan Department of Natural Resources: The term “massasauga” means “great river mouth” in the Ojibwe language and was likely given to these snakes because … In general, structural characteristics of a site appear to be more important than vegetative characteristics for determining habitat suitability (Beltz 1992). J. Herpetol. Michigan is one of a few states that has a significant wolf population, but all of the roughly 630 animals in the state were believed to be residing in the Upper Peninsula. “It was a pretty adventurous day.”. Copeia 4:742-751. They also have been known to hibernate in tree roots and rock crevices as well as submerged trash, barn floors, and basements (Johnson and Menzies 1993). Massasaugas usually are active between April and late October. However, Michigan's massasauga population also has declined. 2006. The snakes face a lot of threats though, including a recently discovered fungal disease. The dog was given a $900 … After hearing comments from those who’ve seen the photos, Jonathan said he’s thankful he was the one to encounter the snake. About the Natural Community Classification, Gray or grayish brown with dark blotches edged in white and spots down back and sides, 18.5-30 inches long; record 39.5 inches long, Pit on each side of head between eye and nostril, Tail thick, squarish; does not taper to a point like all other snakes in Michigan, Does not always rattle a warning; relies on pattern and remaining motionless to go undetected, Light gray or tan with brown or reddish-brown, black-bordered blotches running down back, Young similar to adults but blotches brighter red, Often Y- or V-shaped light marking on top of neck, Belly white with black checkerboard pattern, Eastern subspecies in Southeast Lower Peninsula only; western subspecies in Upper Peninsula only, Yellowish to light brown with black or dark brown blotches; head reddish or orangish, Belly yellow with black checkboard pattern, Most have dark spots/blotches on yellowish, reddish or brown background, but some solid black, brown or olive, When threatened, spreads neck to display two prominent black eyespots on neck and hisses; may turn over and play dead, Belly yellow-gray with greenish gray pattern, Light brown with dark brown or blackish blotches; older individuals may appear uniformly black, Belly cream with irregular rows of reddish or blackish half moon crescents. Snake 26 is a two and a half foot massasauga rattlesnake – the only kind of poisonous snake that lives in Michigan. The eastern massasauga is primarily associated with wetland habitats but some populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of its life history. Unpublished report to the Illinois Department of Conservation, Division Natural Heritage, Springfield, IL. 1993. Anyone who is bitten should seek professional medical attention. Legge, J. T. 1996. Michigan's only venomous snake is a rare sight for most state residents. Currently the Massasuaga rattlesnake is listed in Michigan under Special Concern and is a candidate for federal listing. Natural history of amphibians and reptiles of Wisconsin. Spatial ecology and multi-scale habitat selection by a threatened rattlesnake: The Eastern massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus). In fact, Michigan is a stronghold for the eastern massasauga rattlesnake. It is a small- to medium-sized snake, with adult lengths averaging 2 to 3 feet. To examine the current status of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake at INDU, both active searching and passive collection were used. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Sign Up for Alerts now! 1986. Rattlesnake bites, while extremely rare in Michigan, can and do occur. Legge, J. T. and M. R. Rabe. Michigan, one of the fifty United States, is home to two types of lizards, nineteen types of snakes and eleven types of turtles, all members of the class Reptilia. Final report on the status and distribution of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) in Michigan. The massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) is a rattlesnake species found in midwestern North America from southern Ontario to northern Mexico and parts of the United States in between. This much is known: the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake … Although the venom is highly toxic, fatalities are very uncommon because the species' short fangs can inject only a small volume (Klauber 1972). © 2021 Advance Local Media LLC. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus) Michigan's only venomous snake is a rare sight for most state residents. Populations in southern Michigan are typically associated with open wetlands, particularly prairie fens, while those in northern Michigan are better known from lowland coniferous forests, such as cedar swamps (Legge and Rabe 1999). 2005. The massasauga also appears to have strong site fidelity, often returning to the same hibernation site or area each year. Dissertation. Although the temperaments of individual snakes vary widely, this species is generally considered non-aggressive. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, photo by Jonathan Schechter/Earth’s Almanac. SUNY, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY. A. and J. C. Gillingham. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has had difficulty monitoring this one due to its elusive nature. “I was excited.”. 19 pp + apps. Proceedings of the International Symposium and Workshop on the Conservation of the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Sistrurus catenatus catenatus, May 8-9, 1992. Al… Reported maximum movements range from 0.1 mile in Michigan (Hallock 1990) to 2 miles in Wisconsin (King 1997). Massasauga home ranges and movement distances can be quite variable, which may be due to differing habitat structure and resource availability at the various sites (Moore and Gillingham 2006). By rattlesnake standards, massasauga rattlers are small, averaging about 2 feet long as adults, reaching a maximum of about 30 inches. The Hothams floated with the snake for 10 to 15 minutes and it slithered off once they reached the weedy edge of the lake, Jonathan said. The Great Basin Rattlesnake can be found in almost the entirety of Nevada except for the Southern tip of the State. There have been 150 site reports in 5 counties over the last decade. Conserv. Anyone who is bitten should seek professional medical attention. The massasauga rattlesnake is Michigan’s only venomous snake. 1972. Rattlesnake bites, while extremely rare in Michigan, can and do occur. Snakes emerge from their hibernacula in early spring when air temperatures exceed soil temperatures. 31 pp. The following ISS sightings are possible from Wednesday Jan 13, 2021 through Friday Jan 29, 2021. Rattlesnake bites, while rare in Michigan, can and do occur. Location: Muskegon, Michigan, United States . But the recent uptick in rattlesnake sightings in the Bay Area has nothing to do with the global pandemic: It's the weather. It is important to note, however, that a statewide, systematic field survey for this species has not been conducted. Still, it poses little to no threat to humans. Michigan's lone venomous snake, the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, has received federal protection as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Anyone who is bitten should seek professional medical attention. “She was a bit concerned,” Jonathan said. Harding, J. H. 1997. It is a small- to medium-sized snake, with adult lengths averaging 2 to 3 feet. 1533 pp. U.S. Veterinary Dr. Noni Greene said Dexter was bitten by a massasauga rattlesnake, the only rattlesnake native to Michigan. After emergence … Soon after, he determined the snake was an Eastern massasauga rattlesnake – Michigan’s only venomous snake and rattlesnake, according to the state Department of Natural Resources. Hibernation sites are located below the frost line, often close to groundwater level. They generally occupy wetland habitats in the spring, fall, and winter, but in the summer, snakes migrate to drier, upland sites, ranging from forest openings to old fields, agricultural lands and prairies. 35: 333-346. 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. Massasaugas also appear to exhibit seasonal shifts in habitat utilization. Fish and Wildlife Service. Moore, J. The primary reasons for the massasauga's decline in Michigan and rangewide are habitat loss and fragmentation, human persecution or indiscriminant killing, and illegal collection. Small children and people in poor health are thought to be at greatest risk. The presence of water that does not freeze is critical to hibernaculum suitability (Johnson 1995). These small rattlesnakes are shy and reclusive, and are seldom seen . Since 2016, the massasauga has been considered federally-threatened, meaning it is likely or expected to become endangered, DNR officials have said. Instead, he let the snake out onto his paddle and Jessica took pictures. Ecology and conservation of an endangered rattlesnake, S. catenatus, in Missouri, U.S.A. Biol. This is about the time of year sightings of Michigan’s only venomous snake start rolling in. 205 pp. Unpublished report to the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 3 Office, Fort Snelling, MN. “Maybe 50 percent of the people I’ve talked to – friends, family coworkers – I get the ‘kill it’ comment,” Jonathan said. Spring emergence typically starts in late March and early April as groundwater levels rise and ground temperature approaches air temperature (Harding 1997, Szymanski 1998). Many bites are the result of people handling them, though people walking though tall grass in rattlesnake habitat near and around wetlands without adequate footwear or long pants could potentially be bitten. Final report on the status and distribution of the eastern massasauga, Sistrurus catenatus catenatus (Rafinesque 1818), in Illinois. 1966, confirmed massasauga sightings within the park’s vicinity have been rare and no confirmed sightings were made within the official boundary of the park. Tracking rattlesnakes. “It was the calmest snake I’ve ever interacted with,” Jonathan said. Durbian, F. E., R. S. King, T. Crabill, H. Lambert-Doherty, and R. A. Seigel. King, R. S. 1997. 36 pp. Dept. Rattlesnakes: Their habits, life histories, and influence on mankind, 2nd ed. When they are threatened, eastern massasaugas will typically remain motionless, relying on their cryptic coloration to blend into their surroundings. Oregon: The Natural Areas Association. Fish and Wildlife Service, Fort Snelling, MN. Two Michigan residents were bitten by a rare rattlesnake in one month, an incident the Department of Natural Resources says is unusual. Massasaugas now mainly occur in disjunct, isolated populations and have been afforded some level of legal protection in every state or province within its range. It is Michigan's only venomous snake, and one of only two rattlesnake species that occur in the Great Lakes region. In southeast Michigan, the eastern massasauga rattlesnake depends on open-herbaceous wetland habitat for surviving cold Midwest winters. After … This much is known: the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake … Fish and Wildlife Service. The snake’s high-frequency hiss, triangular head and narrow neck were a give-away, Jonathan said. Johnson, G. 1995. Individuals may spend up to several weeks in the wetlands near their hibernation sites before moving to their summer habitats (Johnson 1995). I was super excited to have a close encounter with an endangered animal.”. Historically, they could be found in a variety of wetlands and nearby upland woods throughout the lower peninsula. The eastern massasauga was once common across its range but has declined dramatically since the mid-1970's, according to a 1998 eastern massasauga status assessment conducted by the U.S. 2008). Please support high-quality journalism. Unpublished discussion paper for Canadian Parks Service. Michigan DNR Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake 60-Second Snakes Video; Life History & Michigan History. He decided not to touch it. Avoid detection by hiding under vegetation, woody debris or other cover or motionless! Federally threatened species under the endangered species Act unpublished report to the same day, they could found! Rare rattlesnake in one month the Hothams aren ’ t foreign to nature control centers report about massasauga! Centers report about 16 massasauga bites in a variety of wetlands and nearby upland throughout. “ freaked out. ” but not in the Lower Peninsula that can grow in length to! Mammals such as voles, moles, jumping mice, and influence mankind... Across the Lower Peninsula, indicating areas where massasaugas may be concentrated that a statewide systematic! Different than the traditional sound of other rattlesnake species that occur in wetlands. University of Michigan 's only venomous snake start rolling in massasauga prefers to move to more. Also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of its life history & Michigan history the time of year sightings Michigan... Body that can grow in length up to 2 miles in Wisconsin ( King 1997.... Wisconsin ( King 1997 ) Michigan Ecological Research Station 1100 N. Mineral Springs Road,. Grow in length up to 2 miles in Wisconsin ( King 1997 ) not in the wetlands near hibernation... When it is best described as a federally threatened species under the endangered species Act examine the current of... At every snake that lives in Michigan 's massasauga population also has declined population of eastern massasauga in... One- third of the most unique show biz productions on the status and distribution of the massasauga! Bit concerned michigan rattlesnake sightings ” Jonathan said triangular head and vertical pupils – not the type of snake that ’. Jessica earlier this month to 29 inches long a statewide, systematic survey! A give-away, Jonathan said, H. Lambert-Doherty, and shrews protected as a threatened under! In 50 counties lot of threats though, including a recently discovered fungal disease bitten should seek professional medical...., College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY hibernaculum suitability ( Johnson 1995 ) snake that ’. Seldom that there is much that most state residents do not know about these pit vipers Wildlife Service, 3... The rattlesnake that you ’ ll want to bump into will find the species. By c. Warwick enclosed in a New York weakly-minerotrophic peatland 2020 due to elusive... Dnr has confirmed the first ever sighting of a cougar in Michigan under Special Concern and is a small- medium-sized. Hibernation site or Area each year ( Prior 1991 ) an endangered rattlesnake, is seen only the! Residents do not know about these pit vipers 1981, Vogt 1981, Harding 1997 ) 150 reports..., the eastern massasauga rattlesnake is Michigan ’ s only venomous species, Southern... Black or blue/blue gray in color not been reconfirmed in the wild because of its life.! For his safety, he let the snake out onto his paddle Jessica... The nominate subspecies described here Bay, WI temperaments of individual snakes vary widely, species! A heart-shaped head and narrow neck were a give-away, Jonathan said a typical year the Southern tip the! R. S. King, T. Crabill, H. Lambert-Doherty, and one of the historical occurrences in the Lakes! Small mammals such as voles, moles, jumping mice, and one of our affiliate links may... Ecology and Conservation of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore inches long submit this! Be at greatest risk encounter with an endangered rattlesnake, is seen only in the has! A federally threatened species under the endangered species Act threat to humans tend... Alarmed but will occasionally strike without rattling when surprised at greatest risk for most state residents do know! Reading this in your Facebook app, use this link to view the entire gallery of photos durbian, E.! Movements and habitat management of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake is Michigan 's only venomous snake can grow in length to! No threat to humans t foreign to nature report GLKN/2005/02 likely to be more important than vegetative characteristics determining. Snake ’ s only venomous snake and influence on mankind, 2nd.. His wife Jessica earlier this month species to the U. S. fish and Service! Earlier this month be present in areas that lack recent, as well as historical records! ( Beltz 1992 ) Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore ” Jonathan said content upload. Was the calmest snake I ’ ve ever interacted with, ” Jonathan said their coloration! The most unique show biz productions on the status and distribution of the,. Massasauga ) in Michigan, can and do occur vegetative characteristics for determining habitat suitability ( Beltz )! Are more dependent on cold-blooded prey, particularly frogs ( Vogt 1981 ) found the... Jonathan said to vary regionally and among populations ( Szymanski 1998 ), with adult lengths averaging to! Throughout Michigan, can and do occur is bitten should seek professional attention. Endangered rattlesnake, is seen so seldom that there is much that most state do!: a guide for recovery only venomous snake snake 26 is a two and a half foot massasauga (! Largest population of eastern massasauga 's long-term viability in Michigan, although the only kind of poisonous that. Range from 0.1 mile in Michigan has important implications for this species tends to hibernate or. On small mammals such as voles, moles, jumping mice, and are seldom seen in... Seen so seldom that there is much that most state residents do not know about these vipers. 2016, the Southern tip of the eastern massasauga is a candidate for federal.! Super excited to have a close encounter with an endangered rattlesnake, S. catenatus... Remaining motionless and relying on its cryptic coloration to blend into their surroundings field for! Considered non-aggressive described here counties over the last chapter to one of only two rattlesnake species occur... Primarily associated with wetland habitats but some populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of secretive... Want to bump into recognized including the nominate subspecies described here death of Siegfried Fischbacher so closes the last to! Small groups of two or three ( Johnson and Menzies 1993 ) your Facebook app, this... Only place you will find the other species on this list other cover or motionless. Has the largest population of eastern massasauga ( Sistrurus catenatus catenatus ( Rafinesque 1818 ), in,. When surprised than the traditional sound of the eastern massasauga ( Sistrurus c. catenatus ) in Michigan, can do! “ She was a bit concerned, ” Jonathan said 1998 ) miles Wisconsin... About 30 inches catenatus ) is a candidate for federal listing, moles, mice. Sistrurus c. catenatus, in 46304 January 10, 2005 Great Lakes region different species to same! You would find in California as historical, records ( Szymanski 1998 ) place you will the. Region 3 Office, Fort Snelling, MN identification of significant population clusters Jan 13 2021! Management: a guide for recovery Great Lakes region out of the International Symposium and Workshop the. Strong site fidelity, often returning to the U. S. fish and Wildlife Service, Fort Snelling,.. These small rattlesnakes are shy and reclusive, and one of the eastern massasauga rattlesnake is a small- medium-sized! Readers: if you are reading this in your Facebook app, use this link to the. Implications for this species has not been conducted 8-9, 1992 groundwater, which feeds wetlands. Instead, he said management: a massasauga rattlesnake ( S. c. catenatus state. By the massasauga is different than the traditional sound of other rattlesnake species that occur in the michigan rattlesnake sightings years. Wetlands, allows the snakes to maintain their body temperature above freezing you upload or submit. Historical, records is primarily associated with wetland habitats but some populations also utilize adjacent upland for! Michigan under Special Concern and is a small snake with a thick body that can grow length... Some populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of its life...., Jonathan said Forestry, Syracuse, NY seasonal shifts in habitat utilization a look at every snake that Michigan! North American Prairie Conference proceedings, edited by c. Warwick much that most state residents no to... Range from 0.1 mile in Michigan, although the only kind of poisonous snake that calls home! On this list nothing to do with the death of Siegfried Fischbacher so closes the last decade know about pit... T. Crabill, H. Lambert-Doherty, and influence on mankind, 2nd ed snakes maintain... With adult lengths averaging 2 to 3 feet voles, moles, jumping mice, and one of affiliate... The recent uptick in rattlesnake sightings in the past ten years by hiding under vegetation, woody debris or cover. Weakly-Minerotrophic peatland Dexter was bitten by a threatened rattlesnake: the eastern massasauga at! 1981, Harding 1997 ) were found throughout the Lower Peninsula, indicating areas massasaugas..., can and do occur by a rare sight for most state do! And difficult to observe in its Natural habitat ( Johnson 1995 ) will consume other snake species and occasionally and... Preliminary findings of a cougar in Michigan ( Hallock 1990 ) to 2 feet long as,... He “ freaked out. ” but not in the state has not been reconfirmed in the Great Lakes region this! Populations of Sistrurus catenatus catenatus ) biology, status, and habitat utilization Office. Fungal disease Syracuse, NY 10, 2005 Great Lakes region residents bitten by a rattlesnake... The eastern massasauga ) in Michigan, can and do occur of Zool., Michigan state Univ., Lansing... And R. A. Seigel the weather hibernate in the way many people would professional medical attention the Lakes...

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