Park program focuses on Michigan snake

Western Oakland County boasts plenty of opportunities to commune with nature.

But while there’s plenty of natural space, danger may be right around the corner, especially for those out with their pet.

Oakland County is host to Michigan’s only venomous snake, the eastern massasauga rattlesnake. While rare, Educational Resource Specialist Kathleen Dougherty with Oakland County Parks said the snake can still be found locally. The snake is a “species of special concern,” meaning there are some protections for the snake, as well.

“We work with the state on the status of the eastern massasauga, because Oakland County is one of its remaining locations where it still has habitat,” Dougherty said. “In a rapidly developing county like Oakland, there’s not many areas left.”

The eastern massasauga rattlesnake needs both wetland and upland habitats to survive, which is found in western Oakland County.

Oakland County Parks will sponsor a free, informal expo on the eastern massasauga rattlesnake this Saturday, Oct. 2, at Lyon Oaks Park on Pontiac Trail, just east of Old Plank Road.

Dougherty said the program is designed “for dog owners, but really it’s good for anyone who is interested in reptile conservation. It is a rare snake, but this gives people the tools and information they need so they know what to do and also to protect their pets.”

She said dogs can be of particular concern with the rattlesnake, because dogs tend to wander and explore using their noses.

“Dogs investigate things with their noses, which can provoke the snake to striking at it,” Dougherty explained. “That could put dog in respiratory distress.”

There are a number of snakes that look similar to the eastern massasauga, so the expo will include information on how to tell the difference. A live eastern massasauga rattlesnake will be on hand, as well, for visitors to see. The expo also includes information on its habitat and how to conserve it, its history, life cycle and more. An artist will be on hand to draw free caricatures of dogs and owners.

“People and snakes and our parks can exist together with some education and safety parameters,” Dougherty said.

If anyone sees a rattlesnake, Oakland County, wants to find out. Dougherty said there is a form available to report encounters.

The Rattlesnake Response for Dog Owners program takes place this Saturday at the Lyon Oaks dog park, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Lyon Oaks is located at 52221 Pontiac Trail in Wixom. A vehicle park pass is required for entry. Visit www.destinationoakland.com for more information.