Northern watersnake
Nerodia sipedon sipedon
Conservation Status:
State Status: Secure
Global Assessment: Least Concern
Photographed by Christine Young in Sharon
Description
Northern watersnakes are large, being anywhere from two to five feet in length. They are a dark brown or gray with lighter red or tan banding. Sometimes they lack a pattern and appear solid black. Their coloration darkens as they grow older. On the belly, there are red, brown, and white markings. Juveniles are a light gray with dark splotches on the back.
Habitat
This species is most often seen in or near water. Areas such as wetlands or bogs are a common habitat, but they may also be seen on rock walls or the ground surrounding a body of water.
Behavior
Watersnakes are active during both the day and the night. They can be seen basking in the sun on rocks. They are very curious, and it is not uncommon
for them to approach people who are in or near water. They primarily eat fish and amphibians, and are preyed on by large birds and mammals. When threatened, they most often will flee to the water, but may also flatten themselves out to appear larger. They release an unpleasant smell when handled and are very quick to bite. Although their bites are harmless, this species’ saliva contains an anticoagulant, which causes the bite to bleed more. Over the summer, they will give birth to fifteen to thirty live young.
Range
Present
Northern Watersnake
Photographed by Eric M. Powell
Often Confused with
Timber Rattlesnake
Photographed by Eric M. Powell
The easiest way to tell these species apart is by the presence of the rattle at the end of the rattlesnakes tail. Rattlesnakes also have a distinct triangular shaped head and vertical pupil slits, while watersnakes have oval heads that are no wider than their neck. Watersnakes also are most commonly found in or around water, while timber rattlesnakes enjoy forests and rocky slopes.