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rattlesnake in the immediate vicinity of Lake Maxinkuckee. We have 
heard, however, of humerous examples being killed in marshy meadows 
northwest, west and south of the lake. In those regions there are numer- 
ous and considerable meadows of the wild grass or sedge, Carex stricta, 
which are cut in the early fall by farmers and others for hay or for use in 
the ice-houses, and other purposes. It is then that this venomous snake is 
met with most frequently. 
Though habitually dwelling in marshy situations it is sometimes seen 
on higher, open ground. It is rarely seen in open woods or dry thickets. 
We know but little about the habits or food of this snake. It appar- 
eltly does not wander far but remains close about the particular marsh in 
which it makes its home. They are quiet and not easily disturbed or 
angered. When observed they will be still or quietly glide away unless 
interfered with. Then they will usually coil, assume a threatening atti- 
tude and rattle more or less. The rattling, however, soon ceases, to be 
renewed only when again provoked. 
The Massasauga is known to feed on frogs, crawfish, meadow mice 
and shrews. We do not know that it ever feeds on fishes, but it is more 
than probable that it would not disdain to eat mud minnows or any other 
small fishes it might find in its swampy habitation. 
The one fact that this is a venomous snake is sufticient reason for its 
extermination. 
The species is viviparous, the young being brought forth alive. There 
are usually about six in a brood, cach + to 6 inches in length when born. 
The birth of the young generally takes place about the first of September. 
The prairie rattlesnake may be known from others of this region by 
the large, flat, triangular head on a slender neck, the presence of a deep pit 
between the eye and the nostril, the long, erectile, perforated poison-fang 
on each side of the upper jaw, and, usually, the presence of a rattle on the 
tail. 
Color, brown or blackish, with about 7 series each of about 834 deep 
chestnut blotches, blackish exteriorly and edged with yellowish; a yellow- 
ish streak from pit to neck; body sometimes all black; scales in 28 or 25 
rows; ventral plates 185 to 150. Length 23 to 3 feet. 
