MSU Extension Center for Lakes and Streams

Often misunderstood and underappreciated, snakes are a unique group of animals found throughout our state. Michigan is home to 18 unique snake species, and they are found in a variety of habitats from grasslands and forests to our inland lakes. Their most identifiable characteristics are the lack of legs and long slithering body. Snakes are reptiles and belong to the same animal group as lizards and turtles. Reptiles get their body warmth from their surroundings, which explains why you may see them sunning themselves on top of rocks, fallen tree stumps, and grassy areas. That's also why we don’t see them in the winter when they hibernate.

If you’ve ever watched a snake, you may have noticed they flick their tongues regularly. That’s because they use their tongue to pick up odors. Their enhanced sense of smell is very important for finding food, which mostly consists of insects and rodents, and sometimes other reptiles. Prey eaten will vary by snake species depending on where it lives. For example, an aquatic snake may eat more frogs, fish or crayfish, while a land-dwelling snake may find more worms or rodents. Snakes help keep rodent populations, like mice, in check which in turn reduces the spread of disease. They also serve a key role in maintaining balance in ecosystems.

Despite the importance and benefits of snakes, many species are declining for a variety of factors, most often from habitat loss. Recently, a fungal disease has also been negatively affecting snake populations. And unfortunately snakes often rank as one of the most disliked or feared animals by humans and are intentionally killed. Yet snakes pose very little threat to us or our pets and often only attack in self-defense when they are provoked.

Species snapshot: Eastern massasauga rattlesnake 

Shy. Docile. Timid. These are just some of the characteristics of Michigan’s elusive and only venomous snake, the eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus). The word massasauga translates to “great river-mouth” in Ojibwemowin, a dialect of the language used by the Anishinaabe peoples, and likely refers to the snake’s preference for living in wet areas. Historically massasaugas were found across the Lower Peninsula of Michigan and in several other Great Lakes states, but due to wetland loss, human persecution and illegal collection, their range and population numbers have diminished. In 2016, eastern massasaugas were listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. Of the remaining populations left in our state, most are found near open wetlands such as prairie fens.

Massasaugas grow to 2-3 feet in length and are easily identified by the rattle at the tip of their tail. Baby massasaugas are born with one segment of rattle, and a new segment gets added every time they shed their skin, which can occur a couple times a year. They have an intricate skin pattern of brown, figure-eight shaped patches set against a light gray-to-brown background along their entire body. Some say the pattern resembles bowties. Occasionally, their coloration can be so dark it appears nearly black. This cryptic skin pattern allows them to camouflage against rocks, leaves, and grasses. Massasaugas also have a relatively wide triangular head and body, contrasting with a narrow neck.

They spend summer months in upland areas in search of their favorite foods, including mice and meadow voles. Massasaugas are pit vipers and have small holes in their face which allow them to sense heat. This adaptation allows them to hunt by lying in wait rather than seeking out prey. In late summer females give live birth to 8-20 young. During the winter months they typically hibernate along wetland and upland areas, using crayfish or other small mammal burrows, below the frostline and close to groundwater level. They often return to the same hibernation site every year.

What to do if you find an eastern massasauga rattlesnake

Most Michiganders will never see a massasauga due to their significant population decline and their ability to avoid detection, thanks to their cryptic coloration and strong preference for avoiding people. If you are one of the lucky few who encounter an eastern massasauga, they often remain motionless or leave quickly to find a better hiding place. Like all wildlife, when threatened they may defend themselves by either sounding their rattle or on occasion, striking when surprised. If you hear a warning rattle, move away slowly and give the snake a wide berth. When massasaugas use their rattle, it often sounds like an insect buzzing. In the very unlikely event that you disturb the snake enough to be bitten, quickly seek medical attention. Most human bites are due to people’s attempts to handle or pick them up. Compared to other North American rattlesnakes, the eastern massasauga is one of the smallest, and as such, injects a smaller amount of venom. Approximately 25-30% of the time, snake bites are "dry bites," meaning that no venom is injected or released.

Reporting occurrences of eastern massasaugas and other snake and reptile species is especially helpful for the conservation and protection of these unique wildlife. If you are lucky enough to spot one in the wild, share your observation with the Michigan Natural Features Inventory using their rare species form.

Tips on how to protect Michigan’s unique wildlife

• Handle animals with care: When you encounter a snake, it’s best to leave it where it is outdoors and keep your distance. On a rare occasion, snakes may enter homes when they hibernate. If you need to move a non-venomous snake, move it carefully to an empty garbage can (ideally at least 2-3 feet tall) using a long-handled broom to gently push the snake inside, put a lid on it, then transport the snake outside to a safe location.
• Don’t let your pet reptiles loose: It is becoming increasingly popular to keep reptiles such as snakes as pets. Snake ownership requires responsibility, and not all snakes are suitable as pets. Never, under any circumstance, release a captive snake (or any other pet) into the wild. It is inhumane and can lead to serious ecological problems.
• Safety while outdoors: When spending time outdoors where rattlesnakes might be present, wear ankle- or knee-high hiking boots or rubber boots, thick socks, and long pants. Stick to well-used trails when possible and watch where you step.
• Keep your pet safe: Similarly, keep your dog on a leash, stay on trails, and don’t let your dog explore holes in the ground or dig under logs. If your dog is bitten, try to identify the snake without getting too close, and take your pet to a vet immediately. Limit the dog’s movement by carrying them if possible.
• Preserve habitat: Many wildlife species, including the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, have seen dramatic population declines due to the loss of critical wetlands across the state. Wetlands provide enormous benefits beyond wildlife habitat including flood protection, erosion control, and water filtration. Be a wetland protection advocate and learn more about the wetlands in your community and opportunities to protect them from future development. Wetlands are commonly found near Michigan inland lakes and riparian landowners are in a unique position to advocate for their protection and restoration. The Michigan State University Extension Center for Lakes and Streams provides resources and support to lakefront property owners and managers.

This article was originally published in the Spring 2025 issue of the Michigan Riparian magazine, a publication produced by the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association.