I am a Christian wife and home schooling mother of three daughters. I am into clean living and I admire the Weston Price Foundation. http://www.westonaprice.org/
from the heart of Ann Katherine Richards
Because this snake is found in and around water, and, like all snakes in the genus Nerodia, has a nasty disposition, it is often misidentified as a venomous "Water Moccasin" (a name that is not recognized by herpetologists) or a "Cottonmouth" (a name that herpetologists do use). Like many non-venomous snakes that feed on large prey (vs. small prey such as lizards, earthworms, etc.) the Blotched Water Snake has developed a defensive behavior that mimics that of venomous snakes. For example, if you approach N. transversa, it will coil up, vibrate its tail, assume a strike posture, and flatten its body near the head to appear larger than it is.
If you get within range, N. transversa will strike and bite. Though its bite is not poisonous, it will draw blood. You will usually also be treated to the odor of its foul-smelling musk, which is similar in fragrance to that of a skunk. The musk is released as another defense mechanism, probably to dissuade other animals from considering it a tasty meal.
I am a Christian wife and home schooling mother of three daughters. I am into clean living and I admire the Weston Price Foundation. http://www.westonaprice.org/
I am a Christian wife and home schooling mother of three daughters. I am into clean living and I admire the Weston Price Foundation. http://www.westonaprice.org/
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