How do you identify a northern water snake?

The northern water snake is a medium-sized snake species that gets its name from its ability to stay underwater for long periods of time. Most species of water snakes are harmless when they’re around people, but they can be dangerous to pets, especially dogs. They use their unique ability to glide without legs to move quickly and silently through water. The average length of a northern water snake is about 25 inches.

How to tell apart northern water snake?

If you’re not quite sure, you can look at the shape of the head to help you. A northern water snake’s head is relatively small, with a pointed snout and wide, flat eyes. These snakes also have a distinct ridge that runs down the center of their necks. If you’re still not sure, then you can look at the size of the snake.

How do you identify northern water snake habitat?

The northern water snake is a burrowing snake that lives in lakes, ponds, swamps, marshes, rivers, and sloughs. They’re most often seen near shore, especially in quiet waters with dense vegetation, cattails and rushes.

How to identify a northern water snake without a tail?

If you’ve never seen a northern water snake before, you’ll be glad to know that you don’t need a tail to identify the species. This snake is easily recognized by three distinctive features: a black diamond-shaped marking on its head, a dark stripe down its neck, and an olive-colored belly.

How do you identify a northern water snake habitat?

The northern water snake’s habitat is limited to the northern half of North America, as the species has difficulty with warmer temperatures. They live in ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, swamps, and slow-moving creeks. Northern water snakes are also found in moist grasslands and woodlands. These water snakes live in burrows, beneath logs, under rocks, and in other places they can find suitable places to rest.