Nerodia – Water snakes

Commonly known as water snakes, it is a group of non-venomous snakes native to North America. They are often found in or near water, such as lakes, rivers, swamps, and marshes, where they thrive. Water snakes are known for their excellent swimming abilities and spend a lot of their time in the water, hunting for food or escaping from predators.

One of the most distinctive features of water snakes is their appearance. They have a stout body with a head that is slightly wider than their neck, giving them a robust look. Their coloration can vary depending on the species, but they are usually brown, gray, or olive, with darker bands, blotches, or stripes along their bodies. This patterning helps them blend into the watery environments where they live, making it easier for them to ambush prey and avoid predators.

Water snakes are carnivorous and have a diet that mainly consists of fish and amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders. They are skilled hunters, often seen swimming through the water or lying in wait near the edge of a pond or stream, ready to strike when prey comes close. They use their sharp teeth to grab and hold onto slippery prey, swallowing it whole. Unlike some other snakes, water snakes are not constrictors; they rely on their speed and strong bite to capture their food.

A fun fact about water snakes is that they are often mistaken for venomous snakes, such as cottonmouths (also known as water moccasins), because of their similar habitats and sometimes similar appearance. However, water snakes are not venomous and pose no danger to humans. They do have a tendency to be a bit defensive when threatened, though, and will sometimes flatten their bodies and hiss loudly to appear more intimidating. If they feel cornered, they might strike or release a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism.