Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

A small 2 to 2 ½ foot long water snake having 4 rows of conspicuous dark spots dorsally (2 rows dorsolaterally and 2 rows laterally) as well as a row of dark spots along each side of the belly scutes. Dorsal color grayish, belly orange. Ovoviviparous. Neonates are very similar in appearance to adults. Use range as an identifier.

Unique Features:

4 rows of dark dorsal spots and location should identify this small water snake.

Habitat and Diet:

Utilizes both river flow and quiet shallows. Prey items are fish and amphibians.

Geographic Range:

TX