"SNAKES OF INDIANA"
(This species is also found in other states.)
(Also called Trap Jaw or Water Moccasin)
Latin Name
Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma
Size
Description
Adults darken to brown or nearly jet black with a white
underside. The young are 6 to 11 inches long and have a marked striped pattern
which fades with age. Adults have facial pits, an arrow-shaped head, and
cat-like eyes--all hallmarks of the viper family. Unfortunately, many people
who see Watersnakes think they are Cottonmouths. Most of these reported
sightings of “Cottonmouths” actually turn out to involve a species of
Nerodia, a harmless Watersnake.
Breeding
This live-bearing snake mates in spring and fall. In
August to September the female bears 1 to 15 young that are 6 to 11 inches
long. Females mature in three years and give birth every other year.
Habitat
Lowland swamps are favored habitats.
Food Chain
The Cottonmouth’s diet includes frogs, turtles,
reptiles, fish, birds, and small mammals.
Location
Found in southernmost Indiana, this snake is extremely
rare in our state, with the few sightings--all in one small swamp in Dubois
County. According to purdue university in fact, this snake
"although occasionally reported, is not considered by experts to be
present in the state. The Western Cottonmouth does occur however in southern
Illinois and Western Kentucky."
Characteristics
Unlike other Watersnakes, the Cottonmouth swims with its
head well out of the water. While it may be seen basking during the day, it is
more active at night. These semi-aquatic snakes are also known to defend their
territory very effectively. When confronted, this snake tends to stand its
ground and may open its mouth repeatedly at an intruder, revealing the light
“cotton” lining of its mouth. It’s a good idea not to disturb or handle
them since their bite is far more serious than that of the Copperhead.
Conservation Status
Threatened.
Created by D. Rigg
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