Mangrove Saltmarsh Snake
Nerodia clarkii • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia clarkii
Found in the southeastern United States, primarily along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico from Florida to Texas, and extending into parts of Cuba.
Look up Mangrove Saltmarsh Snake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia clarkii
Conservation
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, though local populations face threats from coastal development, habitat destruction, and pollution.
Physical Description
Features dark brownish or blackish background coloration with lighter crossbands or stripes along the body. The head is distinct from the neck, and the scales are heavily keeled, giving a rough texture.
Size & Dimensions
Typical total length ranges from 40 to 76 cm (16 to 30 inches), with females generally growing larger than males. This individual appears to be a sub-adult or small adult.
Habitat
Inhabits brackish and saltwater marshes, mangrove swamps, tidal flats, and shallow coastal waters. Often found hiding under debris, rocks, or vegetation near the water's edge.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and amphibians found in brackish environments. Uses active foraging in shallow waters to locate and capture prey.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs). Females typically produce litters ranging from 4 to 20 young in the late summer months.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, though local populations face threats from coastal development, habitat destruction, and pollution.
Cultural Significance
Plays an important ecological role in coastal and estuarine food webs by controlling populations of small fish and crustaceans.
Notable Features
Exhibits specialized physiological adaptations to tolerate brackish and marine environments, including salt-secreting glands.