How to Identify a Cottonmouth Snake

Cottonmouth Ready to Strike

The cottonmouth or water moccasin as it is sometimes called is probably the snake that gets confused with other snakes the most. The reason for this is because any snake found in the water is often considered a water moccasin. Also, many of the snakes found in the water resemble the cottonmouth in looks and behavior. Here is a guide to know what a water moccasin or cottonmouth is.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Plenty of space
• Knowledge of the snake
• A good bit of distance

The Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin

1. Search for the cottonmouth snake, but do not corner it. The cottonmouth is a very poisonous and cantankerous snake. It is aggressive when cornered and can deliver a very powerful bite.

2. Observe that the cottonmouth has a white lining on the inside of its mouth. When the cottonmouth is angry or feels threatened, it will gape open its mouth in a defensive posture. This mouth is a bright white color, and is very intimidating.

3. View the cottonmouth from the side and you will see that the cottonmouth is a heavy bodied snake (fat) that can reach up to six feet in length. It is a strong powerful swimmer that is as comfortable in water as it is on land in spite of its girth.

4. Observe that the color of the cottonmouth is actually quite variable as it changes throughout the snakes life. An adult cottonmouth will have a darker color often. The color ranges from black to brown to tan and everything in between. Most cottonmouths are black, however. Also, the cottonmouth has bands that cross their back that fade a bit as they age. The older specimens are almost always solid black. Young cottonmouths have a brighter coloration to include an interesting adaptation. The tips of their tails are a bright yellow color that they use as a lure to bring prey closer. They wiggle it like a little worm and wait for prey to come close enough to deliver their venomous bite.

5. Walk along the banks of a body of water and you may see a snake swimming. A water moccasin or cottonmouth will appear to be swimming on top of the water as opposed to under the water. This aquatic reptile is a masterful swimmer and has been known to stay in the water for great periods of time.

Tips & Warnings

• The cottonmouth can be deadly, and all bites should be treated at the hospital.

• The cottonmouth is often confused with the common water snake.

• The cottonmouth is found in swampy, or otherwise wet conditions most often.

• Never attempt to handle or get close to a cottonmouth.

• The cottonmouth has a very powerful venom so stay clear.