Cottonmouth snakes are some of the most feared snakes in North America. These large venomous snakes get their name from the white lining of their mouths which is revealed when they open their mouths wide.
Cottonmouths are heavy-bodied snakes that can grow to be more than 6 feet (1.8 meters) long. They are dark brown or black in color with a crossband pattern that is darker than the background color. The bands are widest in the middle of the body and get narrower towards the head and tail.
Cottonmouths are found in the southeastern United States from Texas to Virginia. They prefer habitats near water such as marshes swamps and ponds. These snakes are excellent swimmers and can even be found in some freshwater streams and rivers.
Cottonmouths are ambush predators. They lie in wait for their prey which can include rodents frogs fish and small reptiles. When an animal comes close enough the cottonmouth strikes injecting its venom with its long sharp fangs.
These snakes are considered to be very dangerous to humans. If you see a cottonmouth it is best to leave it alone. If you are bitten by a cottonmouth seek medical attention immediately.
How does a cottonmouth snake look?
A cottonmouth snake is a large dark-colored snakes with a wide head and a blocky shape.
They get their name from the white color of the inside of their mouths.
What colors can a cottonmouth snake be?
Cottonmouth snakes can be black brown or olive green.
Sometimes they can have a brown or reddish stripe running down their backs.
Where do cottonmouth snakes live?
Cottonmouth snakes are found in the southeastern United States from Virginia to Florida and west to Texas.
What kind of habitat do cottonmouth snakes prefer?
Cottonmouth snakes can be found in a variety of habitats including marshes swamps and rivers.
They are often seen basking in the sun on logs or rocks near the water.
What do cottonmouth snakes eat?
Cottonmouth snakes are carnivores.
Their diet consists of fish frogs small mammals and other snakes.
How do cottonmouth snakes kill their prey?
Cottonmouth snakes kill their prey by using their powerful bodies to constrict them.
How big do cottonmouth snakes get?
Cottonmouth snakes can grow to be 3-4 feet long.
How long do cottonmouth snakes live?
Cottonmouth snakes can live up to 20 years in captivity.
What is the reproduction rate of cottonmouth snakes?
Cottonmouth snakes reproduce sexually.
The female will lay up to 12 eggs per clutch and 2-3 clutches per year.
What is the incubation period for cottonmouth snake eggs?
The incubation period for cottonmouth snake eggs is 60-70 days.
How often do cottonmouth snakes shed their skin?
Cottonmouth snakes shed their skin 1-2 times per year.
What is the venom of a cottonmouth snake like?
Cottonmouth snakes have hemotoxic venom which damages the tissue and blood cells of their prey.
What is the treatment for a cottonmouth snake bite?
The treatment for a cottonmouth snake bite is aggressive supportive care including intravenous fluids and pain medication.
Are cottonmouth snakes dangerous to humans?
Cottonmouth snakes are dangerous to humans and should be avoided.
What should you do if you see a cottonmouth snake?
If you see a cottonmouth snake you should stay away from it and call your local wildlife agency.
