Cottonmouth
Agkistrodon piscivorus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernReptilia · Viperidae
About
Agkistrodon piscivorus is a species of venomous snake, a pit viper in the subfamily Crotalinae of the family Viperidae. It is one of the world's few semiaquatic vipers, and is native to the Southeastern United States. As an adult, it is large and capable of delivering a painful and potentially fatal bite. When threatened, it may respond by coiling its body and displaying its fangs. Individuals may bite when feeling threatened or being handled in any way. It tends to be found in or near water, particularly in slow-moving and shallow lakes, streams, and marshes. It is a capable swimmer, and like several species of snakes, is known to occasionally enter bays and estuaries and swim between barrier islands and the mainland.
Fun Fact
Agkistrodon piscivorus (Lacépéde, 1789), northern cottonmouth Agkistrodon conanti Gloyd, 1969, Florida cottonmouth (south Georgia and Florida peninsula) Agkistrodon piscivorus is the largest species of the genus Agkistrodon.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Inhabiting swamps, shallow lakes, and sluggish streams, but it is usually not found in swift, deep, cool water.
Diet
Eat greedily, devour'; thus, the scientific name translates to "hook-toothed fish-eater".
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance