Why is the massasauga important?
Why is the massasauga important?
The average seasonal home range for the massasauga in Western Pennsylvania is 3.8 acres. Many species, such as the massasauga, are uniquely important as indicators of environmental quality and function as “environmental monitors.” They also control the rodent population, thereby controlling rodent-carried diseases.
How do you identify a massasauga rattlesnake?
Adult massasaugas are gray or light brown with large, light-edged chocolate brown blotches on the back and smaller blotches on the sides. The snake’s belly is marbled dark gray or black and there is a narrow, white stripe on its head.
How venomous is a massasauga rattlesnake?
The venomous Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake rarely attempts to bite unless highly agitated. Its venom is very toxic, but healthy adult humans rarely die from a bite because its teeth are too small to inject enough for great harm. However, a bite should still be considered very dangerous.
Do all massasauga rattlesnakes have rattles?
All Massasaugas are stout-bodied snakes with triangular-shaped heads. And of course, they all have a rattle on the end of their tail! The rattle is actually a series of interlocking scale segments, which make a buzzing noise when the tail is vibrated.
Where do massasauga rattlesnakes live?
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.
What do you do if a massasauga rattlesnake bites you?
Call emergency services (911) and get to a hospital as quickly and safely as possible. DO NOT apply ice or a tourniquet. DO NOT cut or apply suction to the bite area.
How do you identify eastern massasauga?
Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Identification
- 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.
- Belly blackish, not patterned.
- Heavy-bodied; often found coiled.
- Gives birth to live young.
Where do Massasauga rattlesnakes live?
Are the massasauga endangered?
Least ConcernMassasauga / Conservation status
Are massasauga rattlesnakes endangered?
What snake causes most deaths?
Saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus). The saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus) may be the deadliest of all snakes, since scientists believe it to be responsible for more human deaths than all other snake species combined.
