It's a beautiful day. You're walking on your farm, in your yard, down the road, or near the water. Sticks and leaves crunch and crackle under your footsteps, tallying your distance as you go. Mid-footfall, the world stops. You freeze, eyes locked on a patterned mound, or an undulating shape to your right or left, or in front of you. Your eyes gravitate to its eyes, tail, and coiled body. You have nearly stumbled upon Agkistrodon piscivoruswater, more commonly known as the Water Moccasin or Cottonmouth snake. In response to this discovery, you may fast forward your options: run away (flight), confront the snake (fight), or remain in place (freeze) until said snake changes course on your shared path (AKA the F3 response. The F3 reactions to snakes and other threats enabled our ancestors react quickly in life-or-death situations. Since snakes are often well-camouflaged, having a heightened awareness of their presence was crucial for survival. Learn more about that here:

https://www.virginiaherpetologicalsociety.com/venomous-look-a-likes/cottonmouth-look-a-likes/

I.D. Me—Correctly, Please!

There’s having cottonmouth, and then there’s being a Cottonmouth! The term “Cottonmouth” when used in reference to a Water Moccasin, denotes the inside of snake’s distinctive white mouth, which it displays when threatened to alert would-be attackers to its large, venom-transporting fangs. Understanding the Water Moccasin’s behavior and characteristics are crucial for those of us living or exploring in areas where these snakes are found.

Oh, Behave! Water Moccasin Habits and Stats

Cottonmouths, or water moccasins, are semi-aquatic snakes that thrive in wetland environments. They are often found near swamps, marshes, and slow-moving water bodies. These snakes are unique in their ability to move both beneath and on the surface of the water, making them skilled swimmers. and aquatic tendencies, this snake is a subject of both fear and fascination.

Despite their fearsome reputation, Water Moccasins are not inherently aggressive, avoiding humans when possible, preferring to retreat rather than engage. If threatened, deliberately or accidently, they will exhibit defensive behaviors, such as opening their mouths to display the white interior that gives them their nickname.

Born through viviparity, or live birth, not hatched from eggs, most young Water Moccasins snakes never each adulthood, instead falling prey themselves to snapping turtles, eagles, owls, raccoons, larger snakes, and even domestic cats. Those surviving to adulthood live an average of 10 years, preying on small mammals, frogs and other amphibians, and fish. Take note that Water Moccasins do not hibernate in the south as they do in the northern states, and may be active during warm coastal Viginia days throughout the winter months.

He Ain’t Venomous, So He’s NOT My Brother!

Several non-venomous snakes can be mistaken for Water Mocassins, including non-venomous water snakes. Determining whether the snake in your sights is—or is not—a Water Moccasin can be crucial in avoiding a potentially dangerous encounter.

Here are five characteristics to look out for:

1. Coloration: Water Moccasins typically have a dark, olive-brown to black body with crossbands (not lengthwise stripes) that may be difficult to see in older snakes, or snakes that are in or near water or mud.

2. Water Moccasins have a broad, triangular head shape, larger and distinct from their neck, a common characteristic of many venomous snake species.

3. Mouth: The inside of the Water Moccasin’s mouth is bright white, a feature they prominently display when threatened.

4. Size: Water Moccasins can grow to several feet in length, with the longest recorded at 74 inches (Yeah, that’s 6 feet 2 inches!). This snake, estimated to be 10 years of age, was found in the Dismal Swamp, according to the Virginia Herpetological Society.

5. Behavior: Water Moccasins may coil and vibrate their tails when feeling threatened, similar to a rattlesnake.

Keep Calm—Do Not Walk On (forward that is)

Back to the beginning of this article. If you find yourself face-to-face with a Water Moccasin, here are a few “steps” to minimize a venomous bite:

1. Stay Calm: Do not panic. Sudden movements can provoke these snakes.

2. Back Away Slowly: Keep an eye on the snake and slowly back away. Most cottonmouths will not pursue.

3. Avoid Aggression: Do not attempt to kill or handle the snake. This increases the risk of a bite.

4. Seek Help If Bitten: While Water Moccasin bites are rare, they are serious. Immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent complications such as gangrene.

There’s no question that Water Moccasins are potentially dangerous snakes, but learning their habits and respecting their space can prevent most harmful encounters. Information and preparation are critical when exploring or sharing areas where these snakes reside. By respecting the Water Moccasin’s role in the ecosystem, we can coexist safely with this unique reptile. Watch your step, friends!

https://www.simplypsychology.org/fight-flight-freeze-fawn.html

All photos courtesy of southeastern Virginia wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.