Identify A Plain Bellied Water Snake In 3 Easy Steps

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Post on Feb 10, 2025

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Identify a Plain-Bellied Water Snake in 3 Easy Steps

The Plain-bellied Water Snake ( Nerodia erythrogaster ) is a common sight near waterways across much of the eastern and central United States. However, its often drab coloring can make it difficult to distinguish from other similar snakes, some of which are venomous. Accurate identification is crucial, both for your safety and the snake's. This guide provides three easy steps to confidently identify a Plain-bellied Water Snake.

Step 1: Check the Belly

The name says it all! This is the most reliable identifying characteristic. Look closely at the snake's belly. A Plain-bellied Water Snake has a belly that is uniformly light-colored, typically ranging from pale yellow to creamy white or even a light gray. There is little to no patterning on the belly. Other similar snakes often have spotted or patterned bellies. This plain, unpatterned belly is your key identifier.

Key Differences from other Snakes:

• Copperheads and Cottonmouths: These venomous snakes often have a darker, more patterned belly.
• Other Water Snakes: While other Nerodia species might have lighter bellies, they usually show some degree of patterning or speckling.

Step 2: Observe the Body Pattern and Color

While the belly is the most crucial feature, the body coloration provides further confirmation. Plain-bellied Water Snakes display a variable dorsal (back) pattern, but generally feature:

• A relatively broad, dark brown or olive-brown back. The shade can vary greatly depending on location and individual snake.
• Often with darker crossbands or blotches. These markings are usually not very distinct and may be somewhat blurry or broken.
• Sides are typically a paler brown or tan, sometimes with a subtle reddish hue.

Remember that the overall appearance can be quite variable. Some individuals might appear almost entirely brown, while others might show more pronounced blotching. The key is to look for the overall lack of sharp, defined patterns compared to venomous snakes.

Important Note on Color Variation:

Regional variations exist. For example, some populations may exhibit more reddish tones than others. Therefore, focusing primarily on the belly and the lack of extremely distinct patterning is more reliable than relying solely on color.

Step 3: Consider the Habitat and Behavior

Seeing the snake in its natural environment provides additional context. Plain-bellied Water Snakes are typically found near:

• Water sources: Rivers, lakes, ponds, marshes, and swamps are their preferred habitats.
• Areas with dense vegetation: They often hide amongst reeds, logs, and other aquatic vegetation.

These snakes are semi-aquatic, meaning they spend time both in and out of the water. If you observe the snake swimming or basking near water, it further increases the likelihood that it's a Plain-bellied Water Snake. They are generally non-aggressive, but if threatened, they may defend themselves by biting.

Handling Considerations:

It is strongly advised not to handle any wild snake unless you are a trained professional. Even non-venomous snakes can bite if they feel threatened, and incorrect handling can injure both you and the snake. Appreciate these beautiful creatures from a safe distance.

By following these three simple steps, you can significantly improve your ability to accurately identify a Plain-bellied Water Snake. Remember, accurate identification is key to ensuring both your safety and the snake's well-being. If you remain unsure, it's always best to err on the side of caution and keep your distance.