NC Snake Pictures / Northern Water Snake

Nonvenomous; adult size 30 - 60 inches. Basic color varies from reddish-brown to pinkish-purple, with brown to black bands. This common NC snake prefers a wet environment, but during rainy weather may travel a long distance from water. Feed on frogs, toads, and fish. These aggressive snakes will vigorously defend themselves by biting and discharging a foul-smelling musk. Note hatchling snake picture beneath adult pictures.

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northern water

Northern water snake in Umstead State Park, Wake County, NC - photo provided by Betty Anderson.

northern head

This photo of a northern water snake's head provided by Rich Stevenson, taken in Umstead State Park.

northern hatchling

This photo of a hatchling northern water snake provided by PJM, North Carolina