Banded Water Snake Biology
The banded water snake also known as the Nerodia Fasciata Fasciata is one of the types of snakes that you rarely see. In the southern area of North America is mostly where these snakes are found. Over time, they have adopted many scientific names such as Natrix Sipedon Fasciata, Tropidonotous
Fasciatus, and Coluber Fasciatus. These snakes can grow up to over 40 inches long and they appear as reddish brown or deep brown. Their bellies are yellow in color with red or black spots that are bright enough to be noticed. However, their skin may become darker with age. These snakes often have cross bands on their backs and sides. Some of them are wider while others are narrower. They are keeled, heavy bodied and often lose their banding as they age.
Habitat
Because these snakes are not known for eating other snakes, they can be put together in groups or with other snakes. They typically enjoy living in freshwater areas like the marshes, lakes, streams, rivers and ponds and are found in the southern area of North America. They can sometimes be found on land, hanging from tree branches and even though they are not very attractive pets, being held captive is not a problem for them. While these snakes are very common in many places especially Florida, they are not very protected either.
Behavior
Their disposition is quite nasty but they are quite easy to care for if you wanted to take one home to have as a pet. This type of snake will normally flee at the sign of trouble. However, it does not always work out that way. In this case, they will bite and release an irritating musk if they feel threatened. Otherwise, they can live quite comfortably amongst humans or other animals. Avoid picking these snakes up because they will take offense and strike. In some cases, you will find water snakes that will eat food from your hand. However, this is not a chance that you would want to take. These snakes can be found in the day or the night time. However, they are more active at night.
Diet
Speaking of rodents, if you have a problem with them on your property, a banded water snake will certainly devour them for you. The water snake is always active so they do not eat very much food all at the same time. They may go days without eating. You can expect their diet to consist of tadpoles, crayfish, salamanders, small fishes and frogs.
Reproductive
Close to the end of the summer months you can expect these snakes to have about 25 or more babies. In fact, it was reported about 10 years ago that one actually had 44 babies in the late months of the summer. This is the most that has been recorded so far. Their babies are known to appear as a bright 8 inches long patterned snake. These snakes are live bearers and their babies have no problem with breeding in a captive environment. Just like their parents, they will strike when they feel in danger and the development of their musk glands is complete when born. They begin mating in the spring and have their children during the summer.
More Interesting Facts
The banded water snake is often mistaken as the cottonmouth snake or a moccasin which is venomous but appears very similar to the banded water snake. The only real way to tell them apart is by paying attention to their behavior. A banded water snake does not open its mouth wide in an attempt to attack when feeling danger is near. Also, the banded water snake does not find it amusing to switch its tail when it feels somewhat disturbed like the cottonmouth snake does.
Knowing the differences between these snakes is very important considering it could save you a trip to the hospital. These snakes are found in the same places and often eat some of the same things. It can be very hard to notice the difference until you get close to them and pay close attention to their behavior.
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