Broad-banded Water Snake (Nerodia fasciata confluens)

Description

Size

It is typically 20-30 in (61-76 cm) in length.

Color and Appearance

The stocky body of the snake bears an irregular pattern of broad black bands that fade to shades of orange or yellow and brown. Often a faint dark line runs diagonally from the eye past the corner mouth. The yellow belly is boldly black markings. The head is only slightly wider than the neck. It has keeled scales that are arranged in rows of 21-27 near the midbody. It has divided anal scales and round pupils. The juveniles are more brightly colored than the adults.

Are They Dangerous to Humans

When the snake feels threatened and cannot escape, it flattens its head and neck and vigorously tries to defend itself. Though the snake is non-venomous, it can viciously bite if harassed. It also secretes a strong-smelling musk from glands located at the base of its tail.

Broad Banded Water Snakes at a Glance

Distribution

Its range includes Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, East Texas, Mississippi, and Missouri in the US.

Habitat

The broad-banded water snake is typically found in and around water bodies. The nocturnal serpent can sometimes be seen basking in the sun among branches above the water or on logs in river sloughs, cypress swamps, or oxbow lakes.

Lifespan

It lives for 7-8 years.

Predators

Birds of prey like the great blue heron, semi-aquatic animals like the alligator, and other larger snakes eat the broad-banded water snake.

Diet

It feeds on frogs, fish, tadpoles, and toads.

Reproduction

Viviparous (gives birth to live young)

Courtship and mating occur in April and early May, with the young being born in late July, August, or early September. There are 7-40 young in a litter. They are about 7-9 in (17.78-22.86 cm) in length.

Similar Species

Cottonmouth

The cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) can be distinguished from the broad banded water snake by its elliptical pupils. The venomous cottonmouth is also bigger and heavier.