Copperbelly Watersnake Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta
Identification
This species has a dark unpatterned back and a bright reddish orange belly. Its smooth appearance distinguishes it from other watersnakes.
Location
Federally threatened
Size
36 to 60 inches
Diet
It feeds mainly on amphibians and occasionally fish.
Habitat
It occurs in southern Ohio in specialized wetland habitats.
Activity Period
April to October
Behavior
It is highly aquatic and depends on large wetland complexes. It moves widely between seasonal wetlands. It is most active in warm months and moves extensively between wetlands.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females give birth to live young in late summer.
Population
The population is federally protected and remains very small.
History
It has declined significantly due to wetland loss.
Human Interactions
It avoids humans and is rarely encountered.
Facts
It is one of the most habitat specialized snakes in Ohio.
Sources
USFWS ODNR
Amphibians fish small aquatic animals | Floodplain wetlands marshes ponds | Southern Ohio