A man trying to photograph Michigan's only venomous snake got bitten for his trouble, prompting the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to issue a statewide safety advisory. The warning carries particular relevance for Upper Peninsula residents who visit Mackinac Island or Bois Blanc Island, where the threatened species also lives.
The DNR's public advisory, released Thursday, Aug. 6, urges residents not to harm, harass, pursue or capture the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, a state and federally threatened species. The warning followed a July 21 bite at Proud Lake Recreation Area in Commerce Township, Oakland County, where a 41-year-old Novi man approached a snake near a boat launch to take a photo.
The man was taken by ambulance to the University of Michigan Ann Arbor Hospital for antivenom treatment. He experienced hand pain and swelling but his vital signs remained stable during transport, Commerce Township Fire Chief James Dundas told MLive. He is expected to recover.
Why it matters in the UP
Eastern massasauga populations in Michigan live in select wetlands across the Lower Peninsula and on Bois Blanc Island and Mackinac Island in Lake Huron, according to the DNR. Both islands draw heavy traffic from Upper Peninsula residents and tourists during the summer months.
DNR endangered species biologist Amy Bleisch described seeing one of the snakes as a "once-in-a-lifetime experience" for most people because the population has dwindled and the animals are skilled at hiding. Bleisch told MLive on Aug. 7 that the best strategy is simple: "The best way to avoid massasaugas and damaging their habitats is to stay on the trails. These snakes are shy and prefer to avoid people. If they don't feel threatened, they will hide and wait for people to walk by."
Penalties are steep
Killing or capturing an eastern massasauga violates the federal Endangered Species Act and can carry up to one year in prison and a $50,000 fine. Possessing one as a pet is also illegal under Michigan law.
Since the bite, state park officials have reported visitors veering off established trails and trampling sensitive wetland vegetation while searching for the snakes, according to EUP News. Some visitors have threatened to kill the snakes despite the legal protections.
What to know
The eastern massasauga is generally tan with large brown splotches on its back. It grows 18 to 30 inches long, and its segmented tail rattle produces a high-pitched buzz that sounds like an insect. The DNR advises staying at least 3 feet away if you spot one.
No confirmed human death from an eastern massasauga bite has occurred in Michigan in more than 100 years, Bleisch said. Between 25% and 50% of bites are "dry," delivering no venom at all.
If bitten, the DNR recommends calling 911, sitting down and removing rings, watches and bracelets before swelling starts. Do not apply ice, tourniquets or attempt suction.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious behavior near massasauga habitat can call the DNR's Report All Poaching hotline at 800-292-7800.
