The small, mild mannered eastern massasauga rattlesnake is a critically imperiled endangered species in Pennsylvania and is also a federally threatened species. Historically, 19 populations existed in the state, all in Western Pennsylvania. Today, only four of those populations remain. 

A vital part of our ecosystem, Sistrurus catenatus catenatus is also an “umbrella” species – meaning that protecting the eastern massasauga in turn impacts other species that share some (or all) of the same habitat requirements, such as American woodcock and the wildflower blazing star.

The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy has been a leading partner in eastern massasauga conservation and research in the region since 2000. Join us for a free webinar July 17 at noon, “Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake: 25 Years of Conservation in PA.”

Ryan Miller, WPC senior vertebrate zoologist with the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program, will present the snake’s fascinating life history and outline the Conservancy’s efforts in partnering with state and federal agencies and landowners to inventory, track, study and conserve this vital species. Learn why the eastern massasauga is important to our ecosystem, the threats it faces and how you can help protect this endangered species! Stay for the Q & A.

Thanks to our partners in our efforts to conserve and protect this important species: 

• PA Fish and Boat Commission
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
• PA Game Commission
• Private Landowners and Supporters