Common Watersnake
Nerodia sipedon • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia sipedon
Common Watersnakes are native to North America, specifically occurring throughout the Eastern and Central United States and Southeastern Canada. This range extends from Ontario and Quebec south to North Carolina and west to Colorado.
Look up Common Watersnake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia sipedon
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN Red List). They are widespread and adaptable, though they face threats from habitat destruction and being mistaken for Cottonmouths.
Physical Description
The specimen displays a uniform greyish-brown to muddy-brown coloration common in adults (patterns often fade with age). They have heavily keeled scales, giving them a rough texture. The body is relatively heavy-set, and the head is distinct from the neck with large labial scales.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen in the image appears to be an adult, approximately 60–90 cm (2-3 feet). Adults typically range from 61 to 107 cm, with females being significantly larger than males.
Habitat
Highly aquatic snakes found in lakes, ponds, marshes, rivers, and canals. This specimen is perched in branches over water, which is a common basking behavior. They prefer slow-moving water with ample vegetation and rocky areas.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily piscivorous and insectivorous. They feed on fish, frogs, salamanders, and occasionally small mammals or birds. They are active hunters that forage along the water's edge or dive to catch prey.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Mating occurs in spring, and females give birth to 15–30 young in late summer or early autumn.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN Red List). They are widespread and adaptable, though they face threats from habitat destruction and being mistaken for Cottonmouths.
Cultural Significance
Often misunderstood and killed due to their resemblance to other species. Ecologically, they are vital for controlling fish and amphibian populations and serve as a food source for larger predators.
Notable Features
Notable for their 'basking' behavior where they drape themselves over branches above water to facilitate a quick escape by dropping directly into the water when startled.