Nerodia sipedon
Table of Contents
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: Animalia |
| Phylum: Chordata |
| Class: Reptilia |
| Order: Squamata |
| Family: Colubridae |
| Genus: Nerodia |
| Species: Nerodia sipedon |
Conservation Status
Identifying Features
Northern water snakes contain a broad head, ridged scales, and can grow to be around 22-53 inches in length. They are brown-gray colored, with dark cross-bands on the neck, dark alternating patches covering the rest of its body, and a pale white-yellow body with spots.
Habitat & Range
Northern water snakes can be found in freshwater swamps, ponds, streams throughout eastern and central North America.
Behavior
Northern water snakes are active during the day and night and can be found laying on top of rocks and stumps. During the day, they focus on hunting along the water edge for tadpoles, frogs, crayfish, and small mammals. At night, they will concentrate on small fish resting along the shallow waters.
Though non-venomous, water snakes are extremely aggressive and will not hesitate to defend themselves by repeatedly striking if bothered.
Life Cycle
Unlike other snakes, northern water snakes do not lay eggs. Females carry eggs inside their body and give birth to live young. The young snakes are born in late summer or early fall and are independent as soon as they are born.
Featured image by CFK.