Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Northern Watersnake

Although we primarily see aquatic turtles accidentally hooked by anglers, other aquatic reptiles are at risk too!

This Northern Watersnake was brought into care after catching a hook in the upper jaw. During the patient’s full exam, it was also noticed that the tail tip was broken, necrotic, and in need of amputation. Other than these small injuries, this snake was bright, alert, and feisty.

Radiographs taken to assess tail damage also revealed that this snake will soon be a mom! Northern water snakes are viviparous, meaning that they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. This species gives birth this time of year and can have litters of up to 50! We are hopeful that we will be able to release this snake before she gives birth so that her babies can be born in the wild.

Believed to be a venomous Cottonmouth by the finder, this water snake is actually entirely harmless. In fact, we don’t even have Cottonmouths in our area—they are only found in the southeastern portion of the state.

There are many myths and misunderstandings surrounding venomous snake ID, so the best way to stay safe is to keep your distance, snap a photo from a distance, and allow the snake to continue on its way safely!

The Virginia Herpetological Society’s website has great information on how to identify different species of snakes. Always use caution when containing any snake species for care, especially if you are not confident in the species identification.

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