Massasauga
A species of Ground rattlesnakes, Also known as Massasauga rattler, Black rattler, Muck rattler, Spotted rattler Scientific name : Sistrurus catenatus Genus : Ground rattlesnakes
Massasauga, A species of Ground rattlesnakes
Also known as:
Massasauga rattler, Black rattler, Muck rattler, Spotted rattler
Scientific name: Sistrurus catenatus
Genus: Ground rattlesnakes
Content
Description General Info
Description
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. Three subspecies are currently recognized including the nominate subspecies described here. As with all rattlesnakes, it is a pit viper (and as with all pit vipers, it is venomous).
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Massasauga predominantly feasts on small rodents, especially mice and voles, leveraging its venomous bite for immobilization. Occasionally, small birds, insects or amphibians complement its diet.
Appearance
Massasauga is a small, robust snake with a stout body and a triangular head. It has keeled scales of brown or grey, displaying a distinct pattern of darker blotches and bands. Its tail ends in a small rattle. While there's a minor variation in size between genders, with males typically larger, they're almost identical in markings and overall appearance.
Behavior
Massasauga is a solitary nocturnal species known for its ambush hunting strategy. It vibrates its tail, mimicking a rattlesnake, when threatened. This species hibernates during colder months and is often found near water sources. It marks its territory using pheromones from its vent glands.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Ground rattlesnakes Species
Massasauga 
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