Sightings

Massasauga Rattlesnake

Peter Middleton spotted this Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake ( Sistrurus catenatus) in a South Oliphant Fen on 13 June 2010.
The snake’s rattle would suggest that he/she was not happy about being discovered.
The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is classified as “threatened” provincially and federally

Oliphant picture of Massasauga Rattlesnake

The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is classified as “threatened” provincially and federally. It was once fairly common in the Oliphant area. There is much anecdotal evidence which indicates the Massasauga still lives in Oliphant and FOOCE has asked for assistance (see Rare and Endangered Species page) in documenting its presence.

Lee Burton provided this picture which she took in 2007 near the Bay Street end of the South Oliphant Road. She immediately recognized the snake because of its distinctively  large girth to length proportions. Lee also advised us that her neighbor observed two Massasaugas in the same area in 2008.

FOOCE is seeking more pictures of recent Massasauga sightings and will appreciate any assistance.

Piping Plover Nest in Oliphant in Summer of ‘08

Piping plovers nested in Oliphant for the first time in thirty-five years in June 2008. These birds are an endangered species, in fact there are only 60 or so pairs on the Great Lakes — mostly in Michigan. Read more… »