Atlantic Saltmarsh Snake

Nerodia clarkii taeniata

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

ENDANGERED SUBSPECIES. Do not molest this federally and state protected snake. This heavy bodied snake is adult at 18 to 24 inches. Grayish to near black above with dark stripes anteriorly and blotches posteriorly. Ventral scutes are light along both edges then dark but with a row of cream to yellow spots along the center of the belly. Scales keeled, anal plate divided. Ovoviviparous.Young similar to adults.

Unique Features:

The dorsal pattern of anterior stripes and posterior blotches as well as the central row of light ventral spots will identify this seldom seen snake.

Habitat and Diet:

May be seen in mangrove clumps as well as open grassy saltmarsh. Often seen coiled or stretched out in marsh side shrubs. Primarily feeds on small fish, amphibians and crayfish.