Minnesota, known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife, is home to two types of rattlesnakes, both of which are venomous. These rattlesnakes, the Timber Rattlesnake and the Eastern Massasauga, are a rare and fascinating part of the state’s natural heritage.
Understanding the behavior, habitat, and conservation needs of these rattlesnakes is crucial for coexisting with them in Minnesota’s natural environment. By giving them their space and letting them continue on their way, we can ensure the safety of both humans and these unique reptiles.
You are reading: Discover The 2 Types Of Rattlesnakes In Minnesota
2 Types Of Rattlesnakes In Minnesota
Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
The Timber Rattlesnake, also known as the Canebrake Rattlesnake or Banded Rattlesnake, is a venomous pit viper species endemic to eastern North America. It is the only rattlesnake species in most of the populous Northeastern United States and is second only to its relatives to the west, the prairie rattlesnake, as the most northerly distributed venomous snake in North America.
Timber Rattlesnakes have wide heads and narrow necks, a typical distinction of all venomous snakes except coral snakes. They are large, heavy-bodied snakes with the characteristic rattles on the end of the tail. Adults range from 30-60 inches (76-152 cm) with the record being more than 6 feet (183 cm) long.
Timber Rattlesnakes are usually gray and may even have a pink hue and a pinkish, yellow, orange, or brown stripe running the length of the back. Timber Rattlers are typically more brown or yellowish and may even be black.
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Timber Rattlesnakes have a wide distribution in the eastern United States, and their range extends from eastern Kansas, Texas, Iowa, and central Wisconsin to Georgia, the Carolinas, West Virginia, western Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New England.
Timber Rattlesnakes live in a variety of habitats, including mountainous or hilly forests, hardwood or pine forests, swamps and river floodplains, lowland cane thickets, and agricultural fields. They are ambush predators and capture prey by waiting patiently in the brush, and then quickly striking, biting, and injecting venom into passing prey.
Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus)
The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) is a small to medium-sized venomous pit viper species found in central and eastern North America.
It is Michigan’s only venomous snake and one of only two rattlesnake species that occur in the Great Lakes region. The average length of an adult Eastern Massasauga is about 2 feet, and it has a thick body, heart-shaped head, and vertical pupils.
The snake is light gray with a color pattern that includes a series of large, dark brown and black, middorsal blotches and two to three rows of lateral blotches. Young rattlesnakes measure approximately nine inches long and have a yellow-tipped tail with a “button” rather than a fully-developed functioning rattle.
Although it is venomous, the Eastern Massasauga is a timid snake and rarely strikes unless handled. The Eastern Massasauga is primarily associated with wetland habitats, but some populations also utilize adjacent upland habitats for parts of its life history.
The snake is active from the first week of April to the fourth week of October, breeding from the second week of July to the fourth week of August, and parturition from the first week of August to the second week of September.
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The Eastern Massasauga is considered an “umbrella” species, meaning its protection in turn impacts other species sharing all.
FAQS
1. Are Timber Rattlesnakes dangerous?
Yes, Timber Rattlesnakes are venomous and can be dangerous if provoked. However, they are generally non-aggressive and prefer to avoid human contact.
2. What should I do if I encounter a Timber Rattlesnake?
If you encounter a Timber Rattlesnake, it is best to give it plenty of space and let it move away on its own. Do not attempt to handle or disturb the snake in any way.
3. What is the range of the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake?
The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is found in central and eastern North America, including small areas in southeastern Minnesota.
4. Are Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes dangerous?
Yes, Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes are venomous and can be dangerous if provoked. However, they are generally non-aggressive and prefer to avoid human contact.
5. What should I do if I encounter an Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake?
If you encounter an Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, it is best to give it plenty of space and let it move away on its own. Do not attempt to handle or disturb the snake in any way.
6. Why are rattlesnake populations declining in Minnesota?
Rattlesnake populations in Minnesota have declined due to habitat destruction, road mortality, collection for the pet trade, and human violence.
7. What is being done to protect rattlesnake populations in Minnesota?
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is working to protect and help rebuild rattlesnake populations in the state. This includes researching their reproduction and DNA, assessing their movements and habitats, and educating the public about these misunderstood snakes.
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Category: Animals
