Common Watersnake Nerodia sipedon

Identification
This species has dark crossbands and blotches on a brown or gray background. Its keeled scales give it a rough appearance.

Location
Common statewide

Size
24 to 55 inches

Diet
It feeds on fish and amphibians and hunts both actively and by ambush.

Habitat
It is found in nearly all aquatic habitats in Ohio.

Activity Period
April to October

Behavior
It is highly aquatic and basks frequently on rocks and logs. It may behave defensively when handled. It is most active in warm months and basks extensively.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females give birth to live young in late summer.

Population
The population is stable though often persecuted due to misidentification.

History
It has been historically abundant in Ohio waterways.

Human Interactions
It is harmless but may bite defensively.

Facts
It is one of the most frequently encountered aquatic snakes in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR USFWS

Fish amphibians aquatic animals | Lakes rivers wetlands streams | Statewide