What venomous snake are Northern Water Snakes frequently misidentified as?
Answer
Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin
Much of the negative perception surrounding the Northern Water Snake stems directly from their frequent misidentification as the venomous Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin (*Agkistrodon piscivorus*).
Related Questions
Are Northern Water Snakes venomous?What venomous snake are Northern Water Snakes frequently misidentified as?What physical feature distinguishes the Cottonmouth from the Northern Water Snake?What specific behavior does a threatened Northern Water Snake use to mimic a rattlesnake?What defensive action might a Northern Water Snake take if escape is blocked?What typically describes the wake left by a Northern Water Snake swimming away rapidly?What is the primary diet of the Northern Water Snake?What characteristic defines the head shape of a Cottonmouth, contrasting with the Water Snake?When a Northern Water Snake bites defensively, what kind of injury does it typically inflict?What specific distance management tip is recommended when passing a Northern Water Snake?