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Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake
(Sistrurus catenatus)

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Family: Viperidae

Size: 20-32 in.

Status: Endangered

Description: This medium-sized rattlesnake has an especially heavy body. Its background color is tan to light gray with large mid-dorsal, light-edged brown to blackish blotches. Its tail has the appearance of being ringed with wide, blackish bands. A dark stripe runs from each eye onto the neck. The name “massasauga” comes from the Chippewa language and means “great river mouth.” The name was derived from the river bottom lowland forests and associated open wetlands where this species lives. Massasaugas primarily eat small rodents but occasionally feed on amphibians. The massasauga is Wisconsin’s most endangered reptile.

More information about eastern massasauga rattlesnakes is available on the detailed factsheet...