Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

A small 2 to 2 ½ foot long water snake having 4 rows of often inconspicuous dark spots dorsally (2 rows dorsolaterally and 2 rows laterally). The orange belly may be plain or may have poorly defined dark spots along each side of the belly scutes. Dorsal color brownish. Ovoviviparous. Neonates are very similar in appearance to adults. Use range as an identifier.Use range as an identifier.

Unique Features:

4 rows of poorly defined 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