There are many different outdoor activities available in Ohio and Michigan, two Midwest states with unique scenery. Planning outdoor outings, however, frequently raises fears about encounters with deadly snakes.

This article will compare the populations of poisonous snakes in these two states, looking at the different kinds of snakes that live there, their habitats, and any possible threats to people.

You can choose your outdoor activities wisely if you are aware of the variations in the snake habitats of Ohio and Michigan.

Snakes of Ohio

Snakes can be found living in a variety of places, including rivers, woodlands, and rough terrain. There are Ohio snake species both inside and outside of city borders, where they can readily obtain food and shelter. Of the approximately thirty-three snake species found in Ohio, only three are venomous.

Northern Copperhead

Typically, hourglass-shaped markings on copperheads cross the snake’s tailbone over its back in their narrower regions. The longest reported copperhead was 52 inches in length, however they can reach lengths of 24 to 36 inches.

Copperheads live in the southern counties of the state of Ohio’s western region. They are also present throughout, with the exception of the eastern half’s northern counties.

Timber Rattlesnake

Male and female timber rattlesnakes can be distinguished from one another by their two distinct color phases, which are black and yellow. While the crossband design is against a yellow background in the yellow phase, it is less evident against a black background in the black phase.

State Comparison: Venomous Snake Populations in Ohio and Michigan — Image By: Newsweek

They can be found in lowland thickets, agricultural areas, marshes, river floodplains, hardwood or pine woods, and hilly or mountainous forests.

Some timber rattlesnakes may reach heights of almost 80 feet, demonstrating their incredible climbing ability!

Eastern Massasauga

The average length of this species is about two feet. This little snake has a gray or brownish-gray body with 29 to 50 dark markings on it. There are three rows of tiny dark markings on either side of the body. According to descriptions, the rattle produces a buzzing sound that resembles a bee stuck in a spider web.

In remote areas of Ohio’s moist plains in the west and north, the Eastern Massasauga can be found. Eastern Massasaugas hunker down in crayfish burrows below the frost line for wintertime safety.

Snakes of Michigan

There are eighteen species of snakes in Michigan due to its diverse topography and environment. Only the Eastern Massasauga is poisonous. The little rattlesnake can be found in a range of wetland settings, hiding beneath foliage or forest debris when it is sighted.

Compared to Ohio, Michigan has a shorter warm season, thus the snakes there hibernate in their dens earlier.

In the spring and fall, eastern Massasaugas are more active during the day. Their routine changes to include extra activities in the mornings and evenings during the summer. Hunting in the dark is straightforward and precise when they use their pits.

To Conclude

Although outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy stunning scenery in both Ohio and Michigan, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with venomous snakes. Ohio is home to a wider variety of poisonous snakes, one of which is the timber rattlesnake.

In contrast, Michigan has a lower risk because it is home to only one poisonous species, the eastern massasauga. You may safely take in both states’ breathtaking natural scenery as long as you are aware of the unique snake habitats and take the appropriate safety measures.

Reference