Banded Watersnake
Nerodia fasciata • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia fasciata
Southeastern United States, ranging from North Carolina down through Florida and west to Louisiana and parts of Mississippi.
Look up Banded Watersnake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Nerodia, Species: Nerodia fasciata
Conservation
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern. Common and widespread throughout its natural range, though local populations face threats from habitat loss and intentional killing.
Physical Description
Features a heavy-bodied build with keeled scales. The coloration consists of dark reddish-brown, brown, or black crossbands or blotches over a lighter yellowish, tan, or reddish-brown background. The belly is typically patterned with dark markings. The head is distinct from the neck.
Size & Dimensions
This individual appears to be a juvenile measuring around 10 to 15 inches. Adults typically range from 24 to 42 inches (60 to 106 cm) in total length, with maximum lengths exceeding 50 inches.
Habitat
Found primarily in and near freshwater habitats such as streams, rivers, swamps, marshes, ponds, and lakes. Highly aquatic, spending much time in the water or basking on overhanging branches and banks.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds primarily on fish, amphibians (frogs and toads), and occasionally crayfish or other aquatic prey. Utilizes an active foraging strategy in water, capturing prey with the jaws and swallowing it alive.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives live birth). Mating typically occurs in spring, with litters of 10 to 50+ young born in late summer or early autumn.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern. Common and widespread throughout its natural range, though local populations face threats from habitat loss and intentional killing.
Cultural Significance
Plays an important ecological role in controlling populations of fish and amphibians in freshwater ecosystems. Frequently misunderstood and misidentified, leading to unnecessary persecution.
Notable Features
Exhibits strong aquatic adaptations, including nostrils and eyes positioned high on the head to allow breathing and viewing while mostly submerged.
Notes
Hiding in a hole in the concrete in Florida panhandle