The northern water snake is a species of large, nonvenomous, common snake in the family Colubridae. The species is native to North America.
Similar species: Scaled Reptiles
By Christine Young
All rights reserved
Uploaded Jan 4, 2018. Captured Sep 9, 2017 12:09 in 80 Main St, Sharon, CT 06069, USA.
comments (9)
"The Northern Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon) is a species of nonvenomous snake found throughout eastern and central North America. There are a total of four subspecies. In terms of appearance, it is a moderate to large snake (between 60-140 cm in length) with heavily keeled scales. It comes in a variety of complex patterns which include brown, black, and gray. It is frequently found in aquatic and semi-aquatic locations like ponds, rivers, wet meadows, creeks, wetlands, and lakes. Here, it plays an important role in balancing wetland ecosystems--preying on small animals like insects, fish, frogs, tadpoles, and salamanders.
Known for its innate curiosity, it is not uncommon for it to approach humans in or near water--especially those who are participating in fishing activities! Despite this inquisitive nature, the Northern Watersnake will immediately flee to water when faced with confrontation on land. If unable to escape, it quickly becomes aggressive, flattening its body and attempting to bite its opponent. Moreover, it may release musk and feces (or even regurgitate its last meal) in order to further discourage possible predation.
While the Northern Watersnake's conservation status is considered "secure," it still faces a multitude of threats. Not only is it confronted with predation by other snakes, snapping turtles, raccoons, skunks, opossums, and foxes, but it is also at great risk of habitat loss and degradation. Furthermore, it faces persecution and death by humans as it is commonly mistaken for venomous snakes like the Northern Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) and the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)." Posted 4 years ago