Safety note: Bites readily — not venomous
The Diamond-backed Watersnake is a large, heavy-bodied snake of the Mississippi valley. Its diamond-shaped dorsal pattern is distinctive. Frequently mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth, it bites aggressively but is harmless.
Habitat
Swamps, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs
Diet
Fish and frogs
How common
Common
Best time to see a Diamond-backed Watersnake
The best time to see a Diamond-backed Watersnake is February–May, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 14,072 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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5,300+species
63national parks
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