Nerodia
Quick Summary
The genus Nerodia refers to a group of 11 species of water snakes found in North America, ranging from southern Canada to eastern Mexico. These snakes are characterized by stout bodies, keeled scales, and triangular heads. They are semiaquatic and primarily feed on fish and amphibians.1
Nerodia species are often confused with the venomous cottonmouth water moccasin due to similar shapes and coloration. However, Nerodia snakes are nonvenomous. When threatened, they may inflate their bodies, hiss, and strike, but they are generally ill-tempered rather than aggressive. The northern water snake (N. sipedon) is a common species within this genus.1
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