Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have heard that northern water snakes are very aggressive and
very nasty. I've just caught 5 and all of 'em are sweet as can be. None are babies. So why do these get such a bad rap?

You got lucky, then. I've caught a few Nerodia that were docile right away, but they were the exceptions. In my experience with watersnakes of various species, but mainly N. sipedon, a typical capture involves copious musking and defecation and vigorous biting for a few minutes, followed by total apathy once the snake has exhausted its defensive strategies.

you caught the only five in the world that were docile. now anyone else who catches one will get bit. can you sleep with that on your conscience?
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1.0.0 Great Plains Ratsnake
1.0.0 Corn, Lavender Aztec het for Amel
0.1.0 Black Ratsnake
0.0.1 Texas Rat (tame)
1.0.0 Broad Banded Water Snake, Hypo
1.0.0 Black Bassador Retriever
2.1.0 Godchildren, 1 Evil, 2 possible hets

i agree with Trolligans. i just caught a few last week and all of them chewed me up like i was dinner, common nerodia-bite and musk.

Most northern water snakes ARE a little nippy and defensive, but they usually calm down after a little bit of handling. If temps were cool (doubtful if you're in the southeast ), they might be more personable. Of course, there will always be a good bit of variation in temperament/size/etc. specimens. You may have run into some animals that tolerate people better.

Hey folks, speaking of northern water snakes, check out what was happening on my pond dock this spring. I should have sold tickets! I hope the photo link works. I don't know how to attach a single picture.

Ok, I figured it out, I think. I uploaded one picture to my photo gallery on this website.