Mud snakes are a type of nonvenomous snake found in the southeastern United States. Their diet consists mostly of amphibians which they kill by constriction. Mud snakes are relatively gentle snakes that are not known to bite humans. However their size and appearance can be intimidating and they should be handled with caution.
Mud snakes are often confused with water moccasins which are a type of venomous snake. Water moccasins are also found in the southeastern United States and have a similar appearance to mud snakes. However there are several key differences between these two types of snakes. Mud snakes have smooth scales while water moccasins have keeled scales. Additionally water moccasins have a pit between their eye and nostril while mud snakes do not. Finally water moccasins have a triangular head while mud snakes have a round head.
Despite their harmless nature mud snakes should not be handling without caution. These snakes can reach lengths of up to 4 feet (1.2 m) and their girth can make them appear much larger. They can also be aggressive when startled or threatened. If you must handle a mud snake do so with care and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
Is a mud snake poisonous?
No
