Midland Water Snake Nerodia sipedon pleuralis

The midland water snake is highly variable in color but most have alternating reddish brown bands that extend down the body. Further down toward the midsection and rear of the body the bands turn to blotches. The midland water snake is sometimes referred to as the banded water snake, not to be confused with the southern banded water snake (Nerodia fasciata). The midland water snake is an aquatic species that is usually found in or around streams, rivers, swamps, lakes and ponds. Although, it is not uncommon to observe this snake far away from a water source as it travels in search of a more hospitable environment. The midland water snake is non-venomous and is not a constrictor so all of its meals are swallowed live. Prey items include more than 30 amphibian species and over 80 different fish. Many times, the midland water snake can be seen basking in tree branches above the water as well as in rock crevices and vegetation along the shore. When a potential predator is spotted, the snake quickly dives into the water and disappears. Mating occurs during late spring and early summer and may produce up to 100 young which are born live. If approached, the midland water snake will first attempt to retreat and if picked up may bite while releasing a very fowl smelling musk from their musk glands. This snake may also writhe wildly by doing what resembles the death roll of an alligator as it tries to escape the grasp of your hand. Another scare tactic it employs is the flattening out of its head and body in order to make it look larger. Unfortunately, the flattening of the head gives it a diamond like shape which some people mistake for a venomous snake and then kill it. Due to this snake's heavy bodied appearance, it is very often mistaken for the venomous copperhead or the cottonmouth. As all of Georgia's non-venomous snakes, the midland water snake is protected by law and may not be captured or killed.