Northern Water Snake

Description:

This snake was so sweet and friendly, which I find to be pretty normal for this species. I spotted it basking in the sun on the side of a pond. I sat in the grass near it until it got comfortable enough with me to slither closer so it could check me out, thus enabling me to get this shot.

Its dorsum was strongly keeled and was a dark grayish color. It had a pattern of reddish brown bands on its venter.

Habitat:

Spotted resting in the grass on the side of a pond.

Notes:

This snake is currently secure in Connecticut, but many are killed each year as they are mistaken for venomous snakes.