There are many different types of snakes in the world and some can be quite difficult to tell apart. Two such snakes are the water moccasin and the cottonmouth which are both found in the southeastern United States. Both snakes are venomous and can be dangerous to humans so it’s important to know the difference between them.
The water moccasin also known as the cottonmouth is a venomous snake that is found in the southeastern United States. It is a member of the pit viper family and can grow to be about 3 feet long. The water moccasin has a dark brown or black body with a white or yellowish-white belly. It gets its name from the white lining of its mouth which it shows when it is threatened. The water moccasin is a solitary snake and is often found near water hence its other common name “water moccasin”.
The cottonmouth on the other hand is also a venomous snake found in the southeastern United States. It is a member of the pit viper family but is larger than the water moccasin growing to be about 6 feet long. The cottonmouth has a dark brown or black body with a white or cream-colored belly. It gets its name from the white lining of its mouth which it shows when it is threatened. The cottonmouth is a semi-aquatic snake and is often found near water but it can also be found in trees and on land.
So what is the difference between these two snakes? The biggest difference is their size with the water moccasin being much smaller than the cottonmouth. The water moccasin is also more likely to be found near water while the cottonmouth can be found in a variety of habitats. Both snakes have a white or cream-colored belly and a white lining inside their mouths but the water moccasin has a darker body overall.
If you see a snake in the southeastern United States it’s important to be able to identify whether it’s a water moccasin or a cottonmouth. Both snakes are venomous and can be dangerous to humans so it’s important to know the difference. If you’re ever in doubt it’s always best to err on the side of caution and walk away from the snake.
What is the difference between a water moccasin and a cottonmouth?
A water moccasin is a venomous snake found in the southeastern United States while a cottonmouth is a species of venomous pit viper.
What does a water moccasin look like?
A water moccasin is a dark-colored snake with a distinct cross-band pattern.
Where do water moccasins live?
Water moccasins can be found in bodies of water such as ponds lakes rivers and swamps.
Are water moccasins aggressive?
Water moccasins are generally aggressive snakes and will attack if they feel threatened.
What is the average length of a water moccasin?
The average length of a water moccasin is 3-4 feet.
What is the average lifespan of a water moccasin?
The average lifespan of a water moccasin is 6-8 years.
What does a cottonmouth look like?
A cottonmouth is a large heavy-bodied snake with a dark brown or black coloration.
Where do cottonmouths live?
Cottonmouths can be found in the southeastern United States in habitats such as marshes swamp and woodlands near water.
Are cottonmouths aggressive?
Cottonmouths are generally aggressive snakes and will attack if they feel threatened.
What is the average length of a cottonmouth?
The average length of a cottonmouth is 3-6 feet.
What is the average lifespan of a cottonmouth?
The average lifespan of a cottonmouth is 8-10 years.
Can water moccasins and cottonmouths swim?
Yes both water moccasins and cottonmouths are excellent swimmers.
What do water moccasins and cottonmouths eat?
Water moccasins and cottonmouths are both carnivorous snakes that primarily eat frogs fish rodents and other small mammals.
What is the venom of a water moccasin and a cottonmouth?
The venom of a water moccasin and a cottonmouth is a powerful neurotoxin that can cause severe pain swelling and tissue damage.
What is the treatment for a water moccasin or cottonmouth bite?
The treatment for a water moccasin or cottonmouth bite is immediate medical attention as the bite can be potentially fatal.
