Beware of These 7 Water Snakes Found in Illinois Waters

Water snakes represent a diverse collection of non-poisonous and venomous reptiles that live in many water bodies throughout Illinois. They reside in different marine environments. These consist of lakes, rivers, and wetlands, all of which are essential to the conservation and balance of regional marine environments. By managing populations of fish and other marine organisms, these snakes contribute substantially to preserving a healthy environment.

In this short article, we will explore the various kinds of water snakes typical throughout Illinois. We’ll likewise explore their special qualities and functions within these marine environments.

Where Can You Find Water Snakes in Illinois?

Water snakes live near bodies of water throughout Illinois, consisting of lakes, rivers, and wetlands. Some significant areas in Illinois where water snake populations flourish consist of the Illinois River, the Mississippi River, the Cache River State Natural Area, and the Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge.

Apart from these areas, you can likewise identify water snakes in smaller sized bodies of water. Those consist of ponds, streams, and drain ditches. They tend to grow in locations with an abundance of greenery, such as cattails and other marine plants.

If observing water snakes in their natural environment interests you, it’s necessary to approach them with care and respect. Although numerous water snakes are non-venomous and normally docile, they can end up being surprised if approached too carefully. Always ensure to view water snakes from a safe range and avoid interrupting their environment or managing them without an engaging factor. Remember that water snakes are essential elements of the marine environment in Illinois. They add to controling fish and other marine animal populations. Observing them in their natural environment can be an useful and gratifying experience. It is essential, however, to appreciate their space and prevent interrupting their lifestyle.

Common Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon) 

The typical water snake, the taxonomic name of which is Nerodia sipedon, is a non-venomous marine snake that resides in Illinois. These snakes have actually robust bodies covered with keeled scales varying from brown to black. In addition, they have lighter-colored bands or spots along their backs, which can be either strong or damaged. Common water snakes normally feed upon fish however can likewise take in frogs, toads, and other little marine animals. They can live in different wetland environments, consisting of streams, rivers, and swamps.

Common water snakes are exceptional swimmers and are most active throughout the day. They spend a considerable quantity of time in or near water bodies. They indulge in the sun on rocks or logs to control their body temperature level.

While non-venomous, typical water snakes show protective habits by releasing a foul-smelling musk when threatened. These snakes play a necessary function in the marine environment by controling fish populations, which assists keep a balance.

Interestingly, typical water snakes might show the habits of “playing dead” when threatened or terrified. They might stay stationary, complicated predators and enabling the snake to leave. They are likewise exceptional climbers and typically indulge in trees overhanging water bodies. Common water snakes are interesting animals to observe and necessary to Illinois’ marine environment.

It deserves keeping in mind that typical water snakes are typically incorrect for poisonous snakes, such as cottonmouths or copperheads, due to their comparable look. However, these snakes are safe. If you encounter one, ensure to keep a considerate range and not interrupt them!

Plain-Bellied Water Snake (Nerodia erythrogaster) 

The plain-bellied water snake is a non-venomous, water-dwelling snake likewise discovered in Illinois. These snakes have slim bodies decorated with keeled scales in tones of brown or gray. Their just identifying function is a pale-colored stomach, which is where they get their name. 

Feasting on fish and different smaller sized marine animals like frogs and toads, plain-bellied water snakes live in varied wetland environments. Those consist of streams, rivers, and even woody areas near bodies of water. These remarkable swimmers are mainly active throughout daytime hours. They spend substantial time in or near water, indulging in sunshine to control body temperature level.

Although non-venomous, plain-bellied water snakes show protective habits. Like the typical water snake, the plain-bellied water snake launches an undesirable musk when threatened. Like most predators, these snakes add to the marine environment by managing fish populations, therefore preserving balance.

Curiously, plain-bellied water snakes have an amazing capability to swim cross countries undersea, considerably adding to their efficiency as hunters. This remarkable swimming capability improves their capability to catch victim and makes them a crucial part of Illinois’ marine environments. Furthermore, the plain-bellied water snake is among the couple of snakes that can swim both forward and backwards.

Queen Snake (Regina septemvittata)

The queen snake has a slim body covered with smooth scales that normally vary in color from brown to gray. They have around 7 light stripes down their body, which provides their special name. These snakes are generally 15 to 30 inches long, with women being somewhat bigger than males.

Queen snakes mainly feed upon crayfish however might take in other little marine animals when available. The queen snake’s environment consists of wetlands, streams, and rivers with clear water and rocky bottoms.

Queen snakes are likewise skilled swimmers. Like most marine reptiles, they spend a considerable quantity of time in or near water bodies and are understood to indulge in the sun when needed to control their body temperature level. Like most other water snakes, the queen snake might likewise launch a foul-smelling musk when terrified. Other defense reaction consist of knocking and spinning.

Queen snakes are likewise understood for their habits of feeding upon crayfish by getting rid of the exoskeleton prior to taking in the soft tissue or particularly hunting just recently molted crayfish. 

Predators of the queen snake consist of raccoons, hawks, herons, mink, and otters. Young queen snakes might be taken in by big frogs and fish too. However, with that said, the main threat to the population of the queen snake is habitat loss.

Northern Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus)

The northern cottonmouth, a venomous water-dwelling snake, can also be found in Illinois waters. These snakes possess robust bodies with coarse scales in shades of brown or black. They are easily recognized by their distinctive white or yellowish mouths, which serve to deter predators.

Just like other water snakes, the northern cottonmouth feeds on fish, frogs, toads, and other small aquatic creatures. They can be found in a variety of wetland environments, such as swamps, marshes, and sluggish rivers.

As excellent swimmers, these snakes are mainly active during the day and often spend substantial time in or near water, also basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature. Although venomous, northern cottonmouths are not aggressive unless provoked or cornered.

When faced with a threat, northern cottonmouths are known to widely open their mouths, displaying their white or yellowish interiors as an intimidation tactic. Additionally, these snakes are adept climbers, often seen basking in trees overhanging local water bodies.

Due to their venomous nature, it is crucial to exercise caution around northern cottonmouths, as trained professionals should only handle them.

If bitten by a northern cottonmouth, immediate medical attention is required, as the venom can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage. Antivenom is available and should be administered as soon as possible to reduce the severity of symptoms and increase the chances of survival. Deaths are rare, but the bite can leave scars and might even require amputation in severe cases. The venom is delivered through the snake’s long, hollow fangs, which are capable of penetrating clothing and skin.

Diamond-Backed Water Snake (Nerodia rhombifer)

These snakes have slim bodies covered with keeled scales, commonly in shades of brown or gray. Distinct diamond-shaped patterns adorn their backs, giving them their characteristic name. 

Diamond-backed water snakes mainly feed on fish and crayfish but also consume frogs and other small aquatic animals in their environment. They thrive in various wetland environments, including local lakes, rivers, and swamps.

Diamond-backed water snakes are highly skilled swimmers, effortlessly gliding through the water in search of prey or a basking spot. These snakes are usually docile creatures, displaying a calm demeanor and preferring to avoid confrontation. Additionally, they often bask in the sun on rocks or logs near the water’s edge to warm their bodies.

When seriously threatened, diamond-backed water snakes are known to bite, which helps them avoid attacks. The bite of this snake is quite painful, and although they are not venomous, they are often mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth. Unfortunately, due to their similarities, diamond-backed water snakes are often killed out of fear. This makes the primary risk to this species simply human ignorance.

Graham’s Crayfish Snake (Regina grahamii)

Graham’s crayfish snake, a medium-sized semi-aquatic reptile, can also be discovered in Illinois. Their slender bodies are adorned with smooth scales in hues of brown or gray, and they display a distinct stripe down their backs and cream-colored undersides.

As their name suggests, their primary food source is crayfish, though they also consume other small aquatic creatures they encounter. These snakes inhabit various wetland environments in Illinois, including rivers and streams.

Graham’s crayfish snakes are adept swimmers, most active during daylight hours. They are non-venomous and usually exhibit a mild disposition. Additionally, these snakes contribute to the regulation of crayfish populations and serve as indicator species, signifying a healthy environment when they are present. They also play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in aquatic ecosystems.

Like many aquatic snakes, Graham’s crayfish snakes are active during the warmer months and frequently spend their time in or near water bodies. Generally non-aggressive toward humans, they are not considered a threat.

Green Water Snake (Nerodia cyclopion)

The green water snake is a non-venomous aquatic snake distinguished by its unique greenish-brown hue, accompanied by dark bands or blotches adorning their backs. Their underbellies display lighter tones, varying from cream to yellow. They generally measure between 30 to 55 inches long, including their tails.

Green water snakes mainly consume fish, but they also feed on frogs, toads, and other smaller marine animals. They thrive in a wide range of local wetland environments throughout Illinois, such as rivers, swamps, and marshes.

As the exceptional swimmers they are, green water snakes spend a considerable amount of time in the water and are most active during daylight hours. They are likewise active during the warmer months of the year, taking advantage of the higher temperatures.

Although non-venomous, some species of green water snakes can exhibit aggressive behavior when they feel threatened or cornered.

One interesting fact about green water snakes is that they are known to form communal basking groups with other aquatic species, such as turtles and other snake species. This behavior helps them control their body temperature level and provides protection from predators.

Conclusion 

Illinois is home to many diverse water snakes, each with its own unique characteristics and adaptations to thrive in aquatic environments. These fascinating reptiles play a critical role in maintaining the health and balance of the state’s aquatic ecosystems, regulating populations of fish and other marine creatures. As we learn more about these intriguing water snakes, we gain a deeper understanding of the delicate interconnections within our regional natural world. The presence of these water snakes serves as a testament to the richness of Illinois’ marine habitats, and it is essential to continue promoting their conservation to ensure the long-term health of these ecosystems and the diverse types that call them home.

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