Nerodia fasciata (Non-Venomous)

The Southern water snake measures from 61 to 106.7 cm (24 to 42.0 in) on average, with a average size ( of 158.8 cm (62.5 in). In one study of the species, the average body mass of adult snakes was 464.3 g (16.38 oz). The southern water snake is typically gray, green-gray or brown in color with dark cross-banding. Many specimens are so dark in color their patterning is barely discernible. They have a flat head, and are fairly heavy bodied. Their look leads them to be frequently mistaken for other snakes with which they share a habitat, including the less common cotton mouth.