Safety note: Bites readily if handled
The Common Watersnake is a heavy-bodied, nonvenomous snake frequently mistaken for the cottonmouth. It is aggressive when cornered but harmless. Found near virtually any body of fresh water in eastern North America.
Habitat
Lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and marshes
Diet
Fish, frogs, and salamanders
How common
Common
Best time to see a Common Watersnake
The best time to see a Common Watersnake is April–June, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 75,690 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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5,300+species
63national parks
50states