Concho Water Snake
Nerodia paucimaculata
A rare, narrow-range Texas water snake tied to rocky, flowing sections of the Concho and Colorado rivers.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Concho and Colorado River systems of west-central Texas
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Overview
The Concho water snake is another highly range-restricted Texas endemic, found only along limited stretches of the Concho and Colorado rivers in west-central Texas.
It was once listed as a threatened species due to the impact of reservoir construction on its riverine habitat, though populations have since stabilized in parts of its range.
How to identify it
- Light tan to gray background with rows of small darker blotches
- Pattern often faded or muted compared to bolder-patterned water snakes
- Keeled scales
- Slender to moderate body build
- Distinguished from the closely related Brazos water snake by its distinct river drainage and reduced blotch pattern
Habitat & range
Restricted to rocky, flowing stretches of the Concho and Colorado rivers in west-central Texas, requiring shallow riffles and rocky substrate rather than still reservoir water.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal, feeding on small fish and amphibians in shallow, rocky river habitat. Basks on rocks along riverbanks. Bears live young. Historically threatened by dam construction that altered its required flowing-water habitat.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Concho water snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous.
Why was it once federally listed?
Reservoir construction on the Concho and Colorado rivers threatened the flowing-water habitat it depends on.
Where is it found?
It occurs only along limited stretches of the Concho and Colorado rivers in west-central Texas.
How does it differ from the Brazos water snake?
It is restricted to a different river drainage and generally shows a more muted blotch pattern.
Concho Water Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Concho Water Snake.
