Banded Watersnake
Nerodia fasciata • Order: Squamata; Suborder: Serpentes; Family: Colubridae; Subfamily: Natricinae; Genus: Nerodia; Species: fasciata
Southeastern United States, ranging from North Carolina through Florida and west to eastern Texas and the Mississippi River Valley.
Look up Banded Watersnake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata; Suborder: Serpentes; Family: Colubridae; Subfamily: Natricinae; Genus: Nerodia; Species: fasciata
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they are often killed by humans who mistake them for Cottonmouths.
Physical Description
Heavy-bodied snake with strongly keeled scales. Features dark crossbands (brown, reddish, or black) on a lighter ground color. The head is wider than the neck with large eyes and round pupils. A dark stripe usually runs from the eye to the corner of the mouth.
Size & Dimensions
Small to medium; this specimen appears to be a juvenile. Adults typically range from 24 to 42 inches (61-106 cm), with a maximum record of about 60 inches (152 cm).
Habitat
Semiaquatic; found in freshwater environments including lakes, ponds, marshes, cypress swamps, and slow-moving rivers. Often seen basking on logs or vegetation overhanging water.
Diet & Feeding
Generalist carnivore focusing on aquatic prey; primarily eats fish, frogs, tadpoles, and occasionally salamanders or crayfish. They use active foraging and strike-and-swallow tactics.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Breeding occurs in spring, and females give birth to 15 to 60 neonates usually between July and October.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they are often killed by humans who mistake them for Cottonmouths.
Cultural Significance
Ecologically vital as both a predator of aquatic pests and as prey for larger wading birds and alligators. In Florida, they are a staple of the wetland ecosystem.
Notable Features
Features extremely keeled scales that give the snake a rough texture. Unlike most other snakes, they can be found in brackish water occasionally, though they prefer freshwater.
Notes
Florida. Aggressive