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rattlesnake in the immediate vicinity of Lake Maxinkuekee. We have 

 heard, however, of numerous 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- 

 ently 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 sufficient reason for its 

 extermination. 



The species is viviparous, the young being brought forth alive. There 

 are usually about six in a brood, each 4 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 34 deep 

 chestnut blotches, blackish exteriorly and edged with yellowish ; a yellow- 

 ish streak from pit to neck ; body sometimes all black ; scales in 23 or 25 

 rows ; ventral plates 135 to 150. Length 2i to 3 feet. 



