Family: Colubridae, Colubrid Snakes view all from this family

Description Heavy-bodied, and its neck is distinctly narrower than its head. Dorsally it is brown or rusty brown with a row of about 25 black or dark brown square blotches down its back. Smaller similar blotches alternate on the sides.

Dimensions 71.1-175.3m. (28-69")

Warning All water snakes in the genus Nerodia are quick to bite if harassed. Their bite is not venomous.

Breeding Breeds April-May. June-October, 14-58 live young, 18-28cm (7-11") when born. Males longer than females when born. Opposite as adults.

Habitat Swamps and streams.

Range Virginia to Florida coastal plain, to Alabama.

Discussion Active during the day. Rests in trees, if threatened will drop down into water. Will bite if threatened, even if it accentually lands in a boat in water.