Eastern Massasauga RattlesnakeSistrurus catenatus catenatus

Habitat
Found in wetland areas.
Description
A venomous, stocky snake with a short tail that culminates in a small but well-developed rattle (an organ of loosely attached pieces of horn that knock against each other and create a rattle or buzzing sound when the tail is shaken). The body is greyish or brownish-grey overall, with darker edged, circular blotches occuring down the back and sides. Adults measure between 51 and 76 cm.
Threats To
Many snakes are killed due to the human fear of snakes, caused primarily by lack of knowledge. In fact the snakes are not usually aggressive; they use the rattle to warn intruders away. Loss of habitat is another major cause of decline.
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