Reptiles

Northern Water Snake

(Nerodia sipedon)

Species Description

**Description:** A large, thick-bodied snake with dark crossbands; patterns often fade to solid brown or gray with age.

**Size:** 24–42 inches long.

**Behavior:** Excellent swimmers that hunt fish and frogs; often mistaken for the venomous Water Moccasin.

**Habitat:** Common along the rocky shorelines of the Allegheny River and reservoir.

💡 Fun Facts

When a Northern Water Snake dives, it can stay underwater for up to an hour and a half!
A common aquatic snake featuring dark crossbands on a brownish-gray body, which becomes brighter when wet.
A striking color variation of the watersnake where the typical brown bands are replaced by deep reddish-orange or copper tones.
When threatened, these snakes will flatten their bodies and heads to appear larger and more intimidating to potential predators.