Plain-bellied Watersnake
Nerodia erythrogaster • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia erythrogaster
Venomous Status
Non-venomous (Aglyphous - lacking specialized fangs)
Danger Level
Low Risk (Harmless to humans, though they are very defensive and will bite if handled)
Geographic Range
Southeastern and central United States, from Delaware south to Florida and west to Texas and northern Mexico.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN), though some subspecies like the Copper-bellied Watersnake are protected in specific northern states due to habitat loss.
Physical Description
Thick-bodied snake with heavily keeled scales. Dorsal color is usually solid brown, dark grey, or black in adults; labial scales (lips) often have dark vertical bars. The belly is typically a solid yellow, orange, or red with no patterning.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen in the photo appears to be an adult around 30-40 inches. Typical range is 24-48 inches (61-122 cm); max record is approx 62 inches.
Habitat
Semi-aquatic species found near lakes, rivers, swamps, and ponds. Unlike other watersnakes, they are frequently found on land, especially in woodlands near water sources.
Behavior & Temperament
Highly defensive when threatened. They often flatten their heads and bodies to appear larger and will bite repeatedly and release a foul-smelling musk if captured. Primarily diurnal but active at night during hot weather.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds primarily on amphibians (frogs, toads, tadpoles) and occasionally fish. They are active foragers rather than ambush predators.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Litters typically range from 5 to 30 neonates, born in late summer or early autumn.
Venom & Safety
Venom Type
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
First Aid Advice
Wash the bite area thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection. No medical intervention is usually necessary as they are non-venomous, but standard wound care should be observed.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with the venomous Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus). Distinguishable by round pupils (Cottonmouths have vertical slits) and the presence of labial bars (vertical lines on the lip scales) which Cottonmouths lack.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN), though some subspecies like the Copper-bellied Watersnake are protected in specific northern states due to habitat loss.
Cultural Significance
Important ecological role in controlling amphibian populations and serving as a food source for larger predators like hawks and herons.
Notable Features
Often mistaken for venomous snakes because of their aggressive defensive posturing and thick bodies. The specific specimen shows clear labial bars and the dark uniform dorsal color characteristic of older adults.