Project Noah is a tool to explore and document wildlife and a platform to harness the power of citizen scientists everywhere.
Project Noah is a tool to explore and document wildlife and a platform to harness the power of citizen scientists everywhere.
Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma
The Western Cottonmouth is often incorrectly referred to as a "water moccasin." Unfortunately, this incorrect name has been used for almost any dark snake found in or near water. Coloration is similar to the two eastern subspecies, except that most specimens tend to become darker at a younger age. Also, the light line that borders the dark cheek strip—clearly defined in A. p. conanti and less so in A. p. piscivorus -- is usually not present in this subspecies. A dorsal color pattern consists of 10 to 15 dark crossbands can be seen in small specimens, as well as in some larger ones.
The Western Cottonmouth does not venture far from a permanent source of water such as a bayou, slough, or pond
Lat: 34.81, Long: -86.98
Spotted on May 1, 2012
Submitted on May 5, 2012
7 Comments
We were manipulating it with snake tongs and a hook...it never struck once...just wanted to escape. It was left unharmed but with a strange story to relate back to its buddies ;-)
Wow, that's close! Interesting that it didn't strike. Most people are way too afraid of snakes.
Thanks Neil and Mandy! I was about 18 inches away from it,
Gorgeous snake. You definitely got its "good side" ;) It looks pretty calm. How close were you?
Beautiful photos and informative notes!
Thanks Janson!
These are classic and awesome photographs, Lisa. Really, really nice!!!