Last summer, Gordo, an Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake, met his demise on Matchett Road. However, his genetic legacy lives on through his successful mating before his passing. Seven baby rattlesnakes, offspring of Gordo and a female named Ashley, are currently being nurtured for future release into the local habitat.
Jonathan Choquette, a biologist overseeing the Ojibway Prairie Reptile Recovery program at Wildlife Preservation Canada, expressed enthusiasm over the preservation of Gordo’s lineage. The newborn rattlesnakes carry the unique Ojibway genetics, a significant addition to the dwindling Eastern Massasauga population in Windsor-Essex.
The Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes, native to the region, face near extinction, with local numbers estimated to be less than 10 individuals. These snakes, the only venomous species in Ontario, are critically endangered statewide. They are known to avoid confrontation, only resorting to biting when cornered.
Gordo, a key male brought to the Ojibway Prairie Complex for population rejuvenation, was a prominent figure monitored by Choquette’s team. Despite being raised in Toronto Zoo, Gordo’s lineage traced back to Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes rescued in LaSalle over 25 years ago.
In a tragic turn of events, Gordo was discovered dead on Matchett Road in September 2025, likely a victim of a vehicular accident, identified by his implanted transmitter. Choquette emphasized the urgency of conserving the species in Windsor-Essex and highlighted the essential role of breeding efforts in sustaining the population.
Following Gordo’s breeding with Ashley, confirmation of her pregnancy came after an X-ray revealed she was carrying eggs during a transmitter replacement at Toronto Zoo earlier this year. The ovoviviparous nature of Eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes led to the birth of Ashley’s offspring at the zoo this spring.
The young rattlesnakes, descendants of Gordo and Ashley, will be kept in captivity until they mature into yearlings. The plan is to release them into the Ojibway Prairie Complex next summer, ensuring Gordo’s legacy endures in Windsor-Essex. Choquette emphasized the significance of this unique population within Canada’s natural heritage.