Plain-bellied Water Snake Hunts Both in Water and on Land

The plain-bellied water snake (sometimes spelled "plain-bellied watersnake") is easily recognizable by its solid-colored belly, which can range from yellowish to red. Unlike some other water snakes that have patterned undersides, this species has a plain belly with no markings.

The back of the snake can vary from dark brown to greenish gray, providing excellent camouflage both in the water and on land.

These snakes typically grow to about 2 to 4 feet (0.6 to 1.2 meters) in length, though some adult plain-bellied water snakes can reach 6 feet (1.8 meters). Their sturdy, muscular bodies are perfect for swimming and moving through dense vegetation, whether they’re in the water or on land.

While some recognize different subspecies of plain-bellied water snakes, others believe they are not distinct enough and are all the same species. A few of the potential subspecies are:

Plain-bellied water snakes are solitary creatures, spending most of their time hunting and basking alone. They are terrestrial and aquatic predators, meaning they hunt both on land and in the water, and are diurnal, so they’re most active during the day, especially in warmer weather.

Though they’re generally shy and prefer to avoid humans, they can become defensive if they feel threatened. They’re non-venomous and pose no real threat to people.

As terrestrial and aquatic predators, plain-bellied water snakes have a varied diet, allowing them to hunt both on land and in the water. They primarily feed on fish, frogs and small amphibians using their quick reflexes to catch prey in the water.

On land, they'll hunt small mammals and other reptiles, taking advantage of their adaptability to catch whatever prey is available.

Their ability to thrive in both environments makes them successful hunters in diverse ecosystems. Like other North American water snakes, they don't constrict their prey; instead, they rely on their sharp teeth and fast strikes to capture and swallow prey whole.

These snakes commonly live in wetlands, swamps, rivers and ponds across central North America. While they're excellent swimmers and often spend time in the water, they also venture into terrestrial habitats in search of food and places to bask. You’re likely to spot them sunning themselves on riverbanks or floating lazily near the water's edge.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the plain-bellied water snake is that this species bears live young, rather than laying eggs like many other reptiles.

After mating in the spring, the female will carry the developing embryos inside her body for several months. By late summer or early fall, she gives birth to a brood of live young, usually between five and 30 babies.

The young snakes are independent from birth and must immediately fend for themselves. Though small, they're capable of catching tiny prey and begin growing rapidly as they mature into adults. Like many reptiles, they shed their skin as they grow, and they reach maturity after about two to three years.

The Fish and Wildlife Service currently lists copperbelly water snakes as threatened, so not yet endangered. These snakes play a vital role in their ecosystems by controlling populations of small mammals and amphibians.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was edited and fact-checked by a HowStuffWorks editor.