There are 17 species of snakes in Ontario. Of these the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is the only venomous snake. A venomous snake may inject venom or poison into a person or animal with its fangs. This rattlesnake is shy and will usually move away from people. The colour of the snake helps it hide without being noticed. The rattle will warn anyone from coming too close, but sometimes the rattle is missing.

 There are four snakes in the province that look like the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Visit the Web site of the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Recovery Team to learn about:

• How to tell the difference between snakes. 
• Why the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is a threatened species.
• How the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is protected by law.  
• Where the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake lives.
• What you can do to promote the recovery of this rare species!

Here are a few tips to avoid being bitten by the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake:

• Wear hiking boots and long pants when walking in long grass or rocky areas, especially in places where the Massasauga Rattlesnake is known to live.

• Watch where you are walking. Do not reach into long grass or under rocks – without first using a stick to poke around. A snake may be hiding there!

• Be very careful when hiking at night and use a flashlight.

• If you hear a rattle, stop and listen. Slowly move away from the sound of the snake. Do not try to touch it. The snake will try to move away from you!

• Remember it is against the law to catch or harm these snakes.