Protected species of snake killed at Michigan park: ‘Please be kind to snakes’

WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. – A botanical garden in Washtenaw County is reminding people to “please be kind to snakes” after a protected species of snake was killed.

On Friday, March 21, 2025, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum posted on social media that an Eastern massasauga rattlesnake, Michigan’s only venomous snake, had been killed.

“Please be kind to snakes. Michigan’s only venomous snake, the Eastern Massasauga, is a shy and reclusive neighbor who is far more interested in avoiding humans than engaging with them. These snakes play a vital role in the ecosystem, helping control rodent populations and maintaining balance in nature,” the botanical gardens posted.

The Eastern massasauga rattlesnake, also known as swamp rattlers, is a threatened species protected under the Endangered Species Act. This means it’s “a species which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range,” according to the NOAA.

“This is a heartbreaking reminder that fear often overshadows understanding. Massasaugas are a protected species, and harming them isn’t just unnecessary, it’s illegal. If you see one, please, give it space, not harm,” the botanical gardens posted.

Eastern massasauga rattlesnakes will avoid humans whenever possible. They spend most of their time in year-round wetlands hunting mice. Their population has been declining due to fragmentation and loss of wetland habitat.

If you do see a massasauga, you should keep your distance. Rattlesnake bites are extremely rare in Michigan, but if you are bitten, you should seek medical attention immediately.

---> Meet Michigan’s snakes: There are 18 species of snakes found in Michigan and only 1 is venomous

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