Water Moccasins/Cottonmouth Snakes

Identification

• Large (2-4 feet in length with a very heavy body)

• Color varies from solid brown or brown or yellow with dark crossbands

• Juveniles have a yellow tail tip

• Head is distinctly triangular (due to venom glands)

• Characteristic threat display with the head in the middle of the coiled body with the mouth wide open (mouth is white on the inside, which explains the cottonmouth nickname)

Environment

• Found in freshwater habitats, cypress swamps, river floodplains, and heavily vegetated wetlands

• Found throughout the southeast, but are slightly more common in coastal regions

Threats

• Venomous snakes

• May bite if bothered

• Peace of mind

Treatment

• Keep food sources away from the home

• Use caution when around fresh water habitats

• Preventative treatment with a product that snakes find repellent