Cottonmouth vs Water Snake: What's the Difference?

What is a Cottonmouth?

Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, are venomous snakes that are common to the southeastern United States. They are part of the pit viper family, which also includes copperheads and rattlesnakes. Cottonmouths get their name from the white coloration of their mouth linings, which they display when threatened or angered.

What is a Water Snake?

Water snakes are non-venomous snakes that inhabit the same regions as cottonmouths. They are often mistaken for cottonmouths due to their similar size and coloration. Water snakes are harmless and are actually beneficial because they feed on frogs and fish which can help keep the local populations of these animals in check.

How Can You Tell Them Apart?

The best way to tell a cottonmouth from a water snake is by looking at the shape of their heads. Cottonmouths have a triangular-shaped head, while water snakes have a more rounded head. Cottonmouths also have elliptical pupils, while water snakes have round pupils. In addition, cottonmouths will display the white coloration of their mouth linings when they are threatened or agitated, while water snakes will not.

Where Do They Live?

Cottonmouths are commonly found in the southeastern United States, in areas such as Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. They prefer to live near water, so they can often be found near lakes, rivers, and marshes. Water snakes can also be found in the same areas as cottonmouths, but they are more widespread and can be found in other regions of the United States.

What Do They Eat?

Cottonmouths feed mainly on other animals, such as frogs, fish, rodents, and even other snakes. They are ambush predators, meaning they lie in wait and strike when prey is close enough. Water snakes feed mainly on fish, frogs, and other amphibians. They generally hunt by swimming through the water and actively searching for prey.

Are They Dangerous?

Cottonmouths are venomous, so they should always be handled with caution. It is best to leave them alone and not attempt to catch or handle them. Water snakes, on the other hand, are harmless and pose no threat to humans.

How to Avoid Them?

The best way to avoid cottonmouths and water snakes is to stay away from areas where they are known to inhabit. If you do encounter one, it is best to slowly back away and give it plenty of room to escape. Never attempt to catch or handle either of these snakes.

Conclusion

Cottonmouths and water snakes are two snakes that are commonly found in the southeastern United States. Although they may look similar, they are very different. Cottonmouths are venomous and should be avoided, while water snakes are harmless and beneficial. By learning to identify these snakes and understanding their differences, you can learn to safely coexist with them.