Man Bitten by Michigan's Only Venomous Snake at Proud Lake Recreation Area in CommerceJuly 23, 2026Nik Rajkovic / news@whmi.comCommerce Township Fire Department this week warned residents to stay alert after a Novi man was rushed to the hospital after an Eastern massasauga rattlesnake bit him at Proud Lake Recreation Area. The rattlesnake is Michigan’s only venomous snake and is a protected species, according to Michigan State University. Chief James Dundas told MLive the man was bitten in the hand by the snake. The victim's family told WXYZ he approached the snake to snap a picture, when it struck. “It’s pretty rare to see one, although they’re common in the Midwest and they are a protected species,” he said.