Common Watersnake
Nerodia sipedon • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia sipedon
Widely distributed throughout North America, ranging from southern Ontario and Quebec in Canada, through the eastern and central United States, as far south as North Carolina and as far west as 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). Generally abundant throughout their range, though they face local threats from habitat degradation and being killed by humans who mistake them for other species.
Physical Description
A thick-bodied snake with heavily keeled scales. Coloration is typically gray, tan, or brownish with darker crossbands or blotches that are wider than the spaces between them. Bands often break into alternating blotches on the mid-body. The belly is usually lighter with reddish-brown half-moons.
Size & Dimensions
Typically 60–100 cm (24–39 inches) in length. Maximum recorded lengths can reach approximately 135 cm (53 inches). The specimen in the image appears to be a mature adult.
Habitat
Semi-aquatic. Found in or near freshwater sources including rivers, lakes, ponds, marshes, and canals. They prefer slow-moving or standing water and are often found basking on rocks, logs, or low-hanging branches.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily piscivorous and insectivorous. They eat various fish and amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders). They are active foragers that seize prey and swallow it whole, often utilizing shallow water to corner targets.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Breeding occurs in spring, and females give birth to 15 to 30 young (record of 99) in late summer or early autumn.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally abundant throughout their range, though they face local threats from habitat degradation and being killed by humans who mistake them for other species.
Cultural Significance
Crucial role in freshwater ecosystems by controlling fish and amphibian populations. Often unfairly persecuted due to their resemblance to other species.
Notable Features
Highly adapted for aquatic life with eyes situated toward the top of the head.