Western Massasauga
Sistrurus tergeminus
A small prairie rattlesnake with a lighter, more contrasting blotched pattern than its eastern relative.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.65 m (1.3-2.1 ft)
- Range
- Central Great Plains, from Nebraska and Iowa south to Texas
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Overview
The Western Massasauga inhabits the grasslands and prairies of the central Great Plains, replacing the Eastern Massasauga west of the Mississippi drainage. It is adapted to drier grassland habitats rather than the wetlands favored by its eastern counterpart.
Its pattern consists of light gray to tan background with well-defined dark brown blotches, giving good camouflage among prairie grasses and soil.
How to identify it
- Light gray or tan body with crisp dark brown dorsal blotches
- Small size, generally under 65 cm
- Nine large plate scales on the head
- Small rattle producing a faint buzzing sound
- Similar to Desert Massasauga but found in more mesic grassland habitat
Habitat & range
Found in prairies, grasslands, and open woodland edges of the Great Plains. Uses rodent burrows and crayfish burrows for shelter and overwintering, often near seasonal wetlands or moist lowlands within grassland landscapes.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily active during the day in spring and fall, becoming more nocturnal during hot summer months. Diet consists of small rodents, lizards, and occasionally other snakes. Calm temperament, usually relying on camouflage before rattling. Live-bearing, with litters in late summer.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Western Massasauga differ from the Eastern Massasauga?
It occupies drier prairie habitats farther west and tends to have a lighter, more contrasting blotch pattern.
Is it venomous?
Yes, though it is small and generally not aggressive toward humans.
What habitat does it prefer?
Grasslands and prairies of the central Great Plains, often near burrows.
What does it eat?
Small rodents, lizards, and occasionally other snakes.
Western Massasauga guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Western Massasauga.
