Species Reptiles & AmphibiansEastern Massasauga

Eastern Massasauga

Sistrurus catenatus catenatus

RareReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus)
Safety note: Venomous — keep distance

The Eastern Massasauga is a federally threatened rattlesnake of wetland habitats in the Great Lakes region. Its populations are isolated and shrinking. A shy, small rattlesnake that rarely bites unless stepped on.

Habitat
Wet prairies, fens, and shrubby wetlands in the upper Midwest
Diet
Small rodents and frogs
How common
Rare

Best time to see a Eastern Massasauga

The best time to see a Eastern Massasauga is April–July, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,164 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Eastern Massasauga sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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