Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

Mostly aquatic. Adults: Often plain bluish-gray above and yellow below. Some adults have black edged light partial bars dorsally. Neonates blotched dorsally and spotted laterally. Scales keeled, anal plate divided. Upper and lower labial between-scale-sutures are dark. Scales keeled, anal plate divided. Ovoviviparous. Juveniles: Strongly patterned with dark dorsal blotches and lateral spots. Belly whitish with a dusky spot on th

Unique Features:

Blue-gray or slate gray dorsum and yellow belly are distinctive.

Habitat and Diet:

Floodplains, swamps, marshes, ponds, and other quiet waters. These snakes may occasionally travel far overland in search of a new home or a mate.Tadpoles, frogs and fish are the principal food items.

Geographic Range:

FL, GA, AL, TN, KY, AR, IL, LA, MS, TX, MO, OK