The water moccasin, also known as the cottonmouth or Ancistrodon piscivorus, is a venomous snake found in the southeastern United States. It is a member of the pit viper family and is known for its aggressive behavior when threatened. Identifying a water moccasin can be challenging, but there are several key characteristics that can help. Here are 12 water moccasin images for identification, along with a description of each image and the characteristics that are visible.
Water Moccasin Identification Characteristics
Water moccasins have several distinct characteristics that can help with identification. They are generally dark in color, with a brown or black body and a lighter-colored belly. They have a distinctive white coloration on the inside of their mouth, which they will often display when threatened. They also have a heat-sensing pit on each side of their head, between their eye and nostril. Adult water moccasins can grow up to 4 feet in length, although the average length is typically around 2-3 feet.
Image 1: Water Moccasin in Water
This image shows a water moccasin swimming in the water. Note the snake’s dark coloration and the way it is able to swim with its body mostly submerged. Water moccasins are excellent swimmers and are often found in or near water.
Image 2: Water Moccasin on Land
This image shows a water moccasin on land, coiled and ready to strike. Note the snake’s aggressive posture and the visible heat-sensing pit on the side of its head. Water moccasins are generally more aggressive on land than in water.
Image 3: Water Moccasin Close-Up
This image shows a close-up of a water moccasin’s head, with the heat-sensing pit and white coloration on the inside of its mouth clearly visible. Note the snake’s distinctive scales and the shape of its eyes.
Image 4: Water Moccasin Pattern
This image shows the distinctive pattern on a water moccasin’s body. Note the dark brown or black coloration with lighter-colored crossbands. The pattern can vary depending on the age and sex of the snake.
Image 5: Water Moccasin in a Tree
This image shows a water moccasin climbing a tree. Note the snake’s ability to climb and its comfort in a variety of environments. Water moccasins are often found in trees and bushes near water.
Image 6: Water Moccasin with Prey
This image shows a water moccasin with its prey, a small fish. Note the snake’s constricting behavior and the way it is able to swallow its prey whole. Water moccasins are carnivores and feed on a variety of small animals.
Image 7: Water Moccasin Habitat
This image shows a typical water moccasin habitat, with still or slow-moving water and plenty of vegetation. Note the presence of trees, bushes, and other hiding places for the snake.
Image 8: Water Moccasin Shedding Skin
This image shows a water moccasin shedding its skin. Note the snake’s ability to shed its skin in one piece, a process called ecdysis. Water moccasins will often shed their skin several times as they grow.
Image 9: Water Moccasin Juvenile
This image shows a juvenile water moccasin, which is often more brightly colored than adults. Note the snake’s distinctive pattern and the presence of a yellow or brown tip on its tail.
Image 10: Water Moccasin Defensive Posture
This image shows a water moccasin in a defensive posture, with its body coiled and its mouth open. Note the snake’s aggressive behavior and the visible white coloration on the inside of its mouth.
Image 11: Water Moccasin Comparison
This image shows a comparison between a water moccasin and a non-venomous water snake. Note the differences in coloration, pattern, and head shape between the two species.
Image 12: Water Moccasin Warning Sign
This image shows a warning sign for water moccasins, which are often posted in areas where the snakes are common. Note the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings and taking precautions when in areas where water moccasins are present.
| Characteristics | Water Moccasin | Non-Venomous Water Snake |
|---|---|---|
| Coloration | Dark brown or black | Light brown or gray |
| Pattern | Distinctive crossbands | No crossbands |
| Head Shape | Triangular | Rounded |
| Heat-Sensing Pit | Present | Absent |
What should I do if I encounter a water moccasin in the wild?
+If you encounter a water moccasin in the wild, it’s best to leave it alone and give it plenty of space. Do not attempt to touch or handle the snake, as this can provoke it to bite. Instead, slowly and calmly back away from the snake and leave the area.
How can I tell if a snake is a water moccasin or a non-venomous water snake?
+Water moccasins and non-venomous water snakes can be distinguished by their coloration, pattern, and head shape. Water moccasins are generally darker in color, with distinctive crossbands and a triangular head shape. Non-venomous water snakes are typically lighter in color, with no crossbands and a rounded head shape.
What should I do if I am bitten by a water moccasin?
+If you are bitten by a water moccasin, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Water moccasin venom can cause serious health problems, including pain, swelling, and respiratory distress. If possible, try to remember the time of the bite and the location where it occurred, as this information can be helpful to medical professionals.
