Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

Although adult at a length of 2 to 3 feet, this snake occasionally reaches 5 feet in length. Aquatic, but often seen basking on emergent vegetation, shore, or floating debris on sunny days. Colors are variable and on some dark examples the namesake bands are all but invisible. Ground color can vary from dusky charcoal to tan or reddish brown. The bands are darker than the ground color, being black, brown, maroon or red and are usually edged with black. There are spots on the sides between the dark bands. There is a dark stripe extending rearward from each eye to the angle of the mouth. The belly is yellowish with uneven lines along each edge. Ovoviviparous. Babies are brightest, and old snakes become suffused with dark pigment and are the least colorful. Scales keeled, anal plate divided. Prey items include frogs and fish.

Unique Features:

This water snake has a dark stripe extending rearward from each eye.

Habitat and Diet:

Aquatic, but often seen basking on emergent vegetation, shore, or floating debris on sunny days. Prefers quiet waters. Primarily feeds on frogs and fish.

Geographic Range:

FL, GA