Banded Water Snakes in Central Arkansas
In Central Arkansas, sightings of the banded water snake can be common. They are nonvenomous snakes that are commonly mistaken for cottonmouth snakes. Sporting heavy bodies with dark brown or black bands running along the length of their bodies, these snakes can reach up to four feet in length. Their broad, flat heads contribute to the confusion with cottonmouth snakes. Banded water snakes primarily prey on fish, frogs, salamanders, crayfish, and tadpoles, and give birth to live young in spring.
Banded Water Snakes Habitat
These snakes are commonly found in freshwater habitats, including lakes and ponds. In the summer’s heat, banded water snakes are predominantly active at night. Nonetheless, they can also be observed during daylight hours, basking on shores or vegetation near water. As temperatures cool, banded water snakes retreat to burrows or beneath vegetation close to water sources to brumate, a process similar to hibernation, involving prolonged periods of sleep.
Banded Water Snakes Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While generally non-confrontational, banded water snakes aren’t aggressive towards humans and tend to avoid it whenever possible. In response to threats, they may emit an unpleasant musky odor or resort to biting, which, despite being nonvenomous, can induce significant discomfort.
If you are having an issue with banded water snakes on your property, it is best to consult a professional pest control company for removal.
