(WJW) – An extremely endangered and rarely-seen species of rattlesnake in Ohio has recently been spotted.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources shared a picture of the snake on Facebook.
Officials are not saying where in Ohio the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake was found in an effort to protect it – and any others – from illegal poachers but said that the highly-protected snake was spotted last month as researchers and volunteers participated in an annual snake survey.
The snake was captured for measurements and then released.
According to experts, the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, also known as a “Swamp Rattler” or “Black Snapper,” is one of just three native snake species in Ohio that are venomous. All of which are rare to non-existent in northeast Ohio.
“Originally, these rattlers probably inhabited all the scattered prairies of glaciated Ohio, but extensive farming has drastically reduced their numbers,” reads a Reptiles of Ohio field guide.
Officials note that wild snakes are critical to healthy ecosystems and help keep populations of insects and rodents at healthy levels. Wild snakes in Ohio are protected by law and cannot be harmed or collected without special permits.
“If you find a snake, it’s present because it’s simply trying to locate food, water, or shelter. If you can leave it alone, please do. If not, contact wildlife professionals for assistance,” said Jamey Emmert with the Ohio Division of Wildlife.
Wildlife officials ask the public to report any sightings of Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes.
The snake is described by experts as “small” — typically less than 34″ — and its color varies from gray to brownish-gray. Some are almost entirely black. Its most identifiable feature is “its small but conspicuous rattle.”
You can see pictures, provided by ODNR, of Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes currently being studied in northeast Ohio below.
According to the Ohio State University Extension, most reported sightings of the snake turn out to be more common species that are misidentified. Click here to find tips for differentiating a Massasauga from other snake species.
To report a sighting, click here.