Hiker encounters two rattlesnakes on trail near her feet

Rattlesnakes are pit vipers and are venomous snakes. The sight of a rattlesnake in the wild is enough to cause terror for many people, but the truth is that they are almost completely harmless, only posing a threat to humans in extreme cases of self defense. They are timid and reclusive and they avoid contact with humans whenever possible.

This hiker came across two massasauga rattlesnakes while on a hike in a remote area near Parry Sound, Ontario. The trail is little more than a deer and moose track that goes from one remote lake to another through dense forest. It was the telltale buzzing sound of the snake's rattle, along with a slight rustle of leaves that gave them away. Kristy wisely stood still and listened until she could determine where the snake was before taking another step.

A massasauga rattlesnake will flick its tail rapidly, causing a noise that sounds much like an angry wasp. This is the warning that tells people they are too close. Unless a person steps on or tries to handle a massasauga rattlesnake, they are very unlikely to be bitten.

Kristy was thrilled to see such a rare sight, as the snake is considered endangered in some areas and near endangered in all other areas. To see two snakes at once, engaged in the act of mating is unheard of. Being a veterinarian, she has an extreme love for and interest in all animals. Of course, she also understands that the snakes will never chase a person or try to attack them. She slowly moved in close with her camera and maintained a safe distance to film them. Moving cautiously allows her to avoid making the snakes feel the need to become defensive, but it also prevents them from being disturbed. The best way to view animals in nature is to take the time and a respectful approach so that you see them acting naturally. Despite her best efforts, the snap of a twig under her feet provokes a slight shake of the rattle on the tail and a reminder that she should not venture closer.

Snakes do not have acute vision and they are visually sensitive to movement. They also have heat sensing pits on their head to locate prey or to sense animals that could be predators. They are particularly fond of eating rodents such as mice or rats and they are considered very beneficial to people.

The massasauga rattlesnake is found throughout much of the United States and parts of Ontario. It is Canada's only venomous snake. They grow to only 30 inches in length. Although their venom is very toxic to small animals, people generally don't suffer life-threatening effects from their bite. Medical treatment is recommended, and successful in almost all cases.
Despite the snake's beautiful coloring and markings, people who misunderstand them and their benefit often have great fear of them. Many snakes are killed each year because people mistakenly believe it is necessary for safety. The truth is that sightings of these helpful creatures are a rare treat!