Greg, you might be right. I don't know about "transversa," but it does look like a Nerodia erythrogaster. And being out of its listed range is interesting because of the climate differences (mostly, cooler temperatures) here in the mountainous area. Wish I had scale-count information on the two species and a belly shot of a baby of either species.

Here's links to each species' info from Univ. of GA.

Red-bellied Watersnake

Northern Watersnake

"I'd still say that's what it is, though, 'cause they don't read range maps & follow them all that well."

Ha! Ha! Thanks for the grin! I might have to resort to fish 'cause the lil' stinker spit out the rat pinkie leg I force-fed it. I don't like force-feeding to begin with, unless necessary. It's especially bothersome when done for personal reasons. Yes, I've got a conscience.
-----
Due to political correctness run amuck,
this ol' hillbilly is now referred to as an:
Appalachian American


www.natures-signature.com

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