Two Ohio Massasaugas showing the variation in color and pattern. The one on the left shows the “typical” color, while the individual on the right is melanistic (all black).
The Massasauga is a small (less than 34″) rattlesnake that is found in the Midwestern United States and southern Canada. The typical base coloration of Massasaugas is gray, tan, yellow, or brown. The dorsum (top of the snake) is covered with dark brown saddles or blotches extending down the length of the snake. The ventrum (belly) is black with occasional white or yellow markings. Often present on the head is a looping narrow white band surrounding a thicker dark-brown band. Juvenile Massasaugas have similar patterns to adults, but tend to be paler in color and have a yellow tail tip. Melanism is occasionally observed in some Ohio populations resulting in an atypical dark coloration with little or no pattern apparent, aside from white markings on the chin and neck. In Northeast Ohio, up to one-third of the individuals may be melanistic (all black).
Newborn Massasaugas have only a single “button” at the end of their yellow-tinged tail.
The tail of the Massasauga ends in a series of segments that make up the rattle. A few important things to note: First, when Massasaugas are born, they lack all but one segment (the “button”); additional segments are added each time the snake sheds its skin. Second, rattles can, and do, break off. In some cases an injury can result in the amputation of part of the tail, leaving the rattlesnake without a rattle. Finally, many species of snakes will vibrate their tail in an attempt to ward off danger. When they do this against fallen leaves or vegetation, it can create a buzzing noise like a rattlesnake. But only rattlesnakes have an actual rattle on the end of their tail.
The majority of reported Massasauga observations are actually more common species that are misidentified. Ohio snake species that are most commonly mistaken for Massasaugas are the Eastern Milksnake, Northern Watersnake, Eastern Foxsnake, and Eastern Hog-nosed Snake. Tips for differentiating a Massasauga from other (non-venomous) snake species are provided below. If you’re not sure of the identity of a snake you observe, send us a photo.
