Michigan is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and among its snake population, only one species is venomous: the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. It is often a rare sight, due to its shy nature and declining numbers. The Eastern Massasauga is also listed as a federally threatened species, underscoring its protected status.
Identifying Michigan’s Venomous Snake
The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is small to medium-sized, usually 18 to 30 inches, up to three feet. It has a thick body. Its coloration ranges from gray to tan, with distinctive dark brown or black blotches down its back. The blotches are rounded, saddle-shaped, or bowtie-shaped, complemented by three smaller rows of alternating spots along its sides. Its belly is blackish, sometimes with lighter mottling.
Its head is triangular or heart-shaped, appearing noticeably wider than its neck. It also has vertical slit pupils and heat-sensing pits between its nostrils and eyes, characteristic of pit vipers. Its most recognizable feature is the segmented rattle at its tail end, producing a sound often compared to an insect buzzing when vibrated. Newborn Massasaugas have a single “button” at the tail tip, with new segments added each time they shed their skin.
This species inhabits various wetland environments across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, including bogs, fens, shrub swamps, wet meadows, and wet prairies. While southern Michigan populations are found in open wetlands like prairie fens, those in northern Michigan may also utilize lowland coniferous forests, such as cedar swamps. They exhibit seasonal habitat shifts, moving to drier upland areas like forest openings, old fields, or agricultural lands during warmer summer months for foraging and basking. For hibernation, they seek refuge in crayfish or rodent burrows, or under logs and tree roots, often hibernating alone or in small groups.
Staying Safe Around Snakes
Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes are timid, preferring to avoid human contact. Most snakebites occur when individuals attempt to handle, harass, or provoke these reptiles. To minimize encounter risk, remain on marked trails, especially in snake habitats.
Wear closed-toe shoes or hiking boots and long pants for protection. Avoid reaching into unseen areas like under logs, rocks, or dense vegetation where a snake might be resting. Maintain a safe distance from any snake; they can strike approximately one-third of their body length. Do not interact with or harm a snake, as killing a protected species like the Massasauga can lead to legal penalties.
Responding to a Snakebite
Treat any suspected snakebite as a medical emergency. Remain calm; this can help slow venom spread. Immediately call 911 or seek medical attention.
While waiting for medical help, move away from the snake to prevent further bites. Keep the bitten limb as still as possible and below heart level. Remove any constricting items like jewelry, watches, or tight clothing from the affected limb before swelling begins. Gently clean the wound with soap and water, then cover it loosely with a clean, dry bandage.
Avoid these actions after a snakebite:
- Do not apply a tourniquet.
- Do not cut the wound.
- Do not attempt to suck out the venom.
- Do not apply ice or immerse the wound in water.
- Do not drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages.
- Do not take pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Do not try to capture or kill the snake.
While up to half of all snakebites may be “dry bites” (no venom injected), medical evaluation is always necessary. Antivenom is the definitive medical treatment for venomous snakebites.