Common Watersnake (Broad-banded Watersnake variant)
Nerodia sipedon (cf. Nerodia fasciata confluens) • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia sipedon
Eastern and central North America, ranging from southern Canada through the eastern United States to the Gulf Coast.
Look up Common Watersnake (Broad-banded Watersnake variant) in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Non-venomous (Aglyphous - lacks specialized venom-delivery fangs)
Danger Level
Low Risk - Harmless to humans and pets, though highly defensive; prone to biting and musk release if handled.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia sipedon
Conservation
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. Major threats include habitat destruction and persecution by humans who mistake them for venomous snakes.
Physical Description
Heavy-bodied snake with strongly keeled scales. Dorsal color is typically dark brown or grayish with darker crossbands or blotches. The belly often features reddish-orange crescent-shaped markings. The head is distinct from the neck with large labial scales.
Size & Dimensions
Specimen appears to be a juvenile or sub-adult, roughly 12-18 inches; adults typically range from 24 to 42 inches (61-107 cm).
Habitat
Semiaquatic species found in and near freshwater sources including ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, and swamps. Often found basking on rocks or branches overhanging water.
Behavior & Temperament
Highly defensive when cornered; will flatten its head and body to appear larger, hiss loudly, and strike repeatedly. Primarily diurnal but active at night during hot weather.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous; primarily feeds on fish and amphibians (frogs, toads, tadpoles, salamanders). They are active foragers and do not use constriction.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young); typically mates in spring with litters of 15-30 young born between August and October.
Venom Profile
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom. Saliva may contain mild anticoagulants.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with the Northern Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus). Distinguishable by round pupils (Cottonmouths have vertical slits) and the lack of a heat-sensing pit between the eye and nostril.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. Major threats include habitat destruction and persecution by humans who mistake them for venomous snakes.
Cultural Significance
Often unfairly maligned due to their resemblance to Cottonmouths. They play a vital ecological role in controlling fish and amphibian populations and serving as prey for larger predators.
Notable Features
One of the most common aquatic snakes in North America. They are excellent swimmers and can stay submerged for extended periods while hunting or hiding.