How is the head shape of the Northern Water Snake typically described in contrast to the venomous Cottonmouth?
Answer
Broad, only slightly wider than the neck.
One of the most reliable physical distinctions between the nonvenomous Northern Water Snake and the venomous Cottonmouth lies in the structure of the head. The *Nerodia sipedon* possesses a head that is broad but only slightly wider than its neck, giving it a relatively streamlined profile. Conversely, the Cottonmouth (*Agkistrodon piscivorus*) is characterized by a distinctly broad, spade-shaped head that is often clearly demarcated or set off from the neck structure. Additionally, this venomous relative possesses facial features like deeply set loreal pits, which are entirely absent in the Northern Water Snake.
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