Banded Water Snakes in Virginia
Banded water snakes are nonvenomous reptiles commonly found in Virginia and often confused with cottonmouth snakes. They have thick bodies marked with dark patterns and light-colored scales. These snakes can grow up to four feet long and feature broad, flat heads, which leads to their frequent misidentification as cottonmouths. Their diet includes fish, frogs, crayfish, and tadpoles, and they give birth to live young after mating in the spring.
Banded Water Snake Habitat
These snakes are generally found in lakes, ponds, and other freshwater habitats. While they are mainly nocturnal in the summer, they can often be seen basking on the banks or vegetation during daylight hours. In colder months, banded water snakes take shelter in burrows or under piles of plant material near water, entering brumation, which resembles hibernation but involves lighter, less prolonged rest.
Banded Water Snake Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
True to their name, banded water snakes are most commonly found near or in water and are known for being among the best swimmers of all snake species. They are not aggressive but will go to great lengths to avoid humans. If threatened, they might emit a musky odor or bite, which, while not venomous, can still cause significant pain. They are generally not dangerous to humans but can become more defensive if they feel cornered or provoked.
If you’re dealing with banded water snakes on your property, contacting a professional pest control service for safe removal is the best course of action.
