well, as some of you know, i recently had the pleasure of going out in the field to help with a research project that basically has to do with the effects of prescribed burns on massasauga populations. in case you aren't familiar with the eastern massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus), they are a small rattlesnake that inhabits wetlands in the upper great lakes region and they've been on the decline for quite some time. i'd be happy to go more into detail if anyone wants, but since we're all visually oriented i'll just get some pictures up for now.

matt tubing one of the males:


one of the females:


yes, they are hard to spot!


and live in some crazy places!


all in all, it was some very hard work. but i loved every minute of it and will be going back out as soon as i can... thanks for looking.

and one more pic, this guy was crossing the road as we were leaving: