• Snake ID?

    Question

    What kind of snake is this?

    Naturalist's Response

    The snake you have pictured is a Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon). This is one of the most common species of snakes we find in Geauga County and is an important part of our local ecosystem. They feed on fish, frogs and salamanders, but in turn provide food for herons, mink, hawks and other predators.

    The good news is they are not venomous and are inclined to flee from humans. However, if they are grabbed, they do not hesitate to bite, though the wound is pretty superficial.

    -Naturalist Andy Avram