The Most Rattlesnake Infested Wetland in Michigan

If you're anything like me, you want to know where snakes are—not just the poisonous ones but also the other species that have no legs but still move on land. I'm scared to death of them. Does it make sense? Nope, but I am, and therefore, I was shocked to find out that one of the highest concentrations of Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake in the Midwest is right here in Michigan. Oh, joy!

The South Bend Tribune reports that the Ed Lowe Foundation property in Michiana, Michigan, is chock full of venomous nope ropes.

How MANY Rattlesnakes Are We Talking?

The property is approximately 2,000 acres in total, located just east of Cassopolis. Over the course of a seven-year research project, herpetologists found more than 800 Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes on the property. In 2017, it was estimated that nearly 150 snakes were capable of breeding on the Ed Lowe Foundation land.

The property comprises wetlands the species love to call home and ample grasslands and prairies to hunt for rodents. In short, you will not find me on this property—EVER.

Michigan's Only Venomous Snake is a Protected Species

I'm not sure why you want to, but disturbing an Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake in Michigan or anywhere in the United States is a crime. According to Michigan's Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the US Fish and Wildlife Service lists them as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. Plus, the whole venom thing is a pretty good reason to leave them alone, regardless of whether it's against the law.

RELATED: The Deadly 7: Michigan's Most Venomous and Poisonous Threats

It is rare to see an Eastern Massauga in the wild, but if you do see one, give it some space (I'll give Michiana a healthy 15-mile radius worth of it now). Snap a picture and report it to the DNR using the Eyes in the Field feature or by clicking here.