The Eastern Massasauga is a rattlesnake that lives here in Ontario.
Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) in the Toronto Zoo.
This specimen is in the Zoo, but it is possible to encounter a Massasauga Rattlesnake in the wild around here although there aren’t that many of them.
Even though people do not expect to run into a poisonous snake in Ontario, it is a possibility. Rattlesnake bites are life threatening — although these days fatalities are rare is the victim seeks proper medical attention immediately. If you follow the links below you will find advice what to do if you meet a Massasauga rattlesnake in the wild or get bitten — best advice, do not harass the snake, if you leave it alone you have a lot less chance of being bitten.
Further Readings:
Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Parks Canada).
Eastern Massasauga (Ontario Nature).
Eastern Massasauga (Eastern Massasauga Recovery).