i.d. a snake
Posted by Amy Kopp on June 26, 2006
Q: This snake was in the water on our farm pond. It was slender and about 10" long. It's head was rounded and the same diameter as its body. The color of the snake was grey and black with a very distinct pattern of small rectangles or squares that went the length of the snake. Thanks for your help!
Habitat: pond/lake
State: Kansas
Habitat: pond/lake
A: Very nice description. Sounds like you saw a Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon). These are rather common, non-poisonous snakes that are often seen around ponds, streams and rivers. As you might guess, these snakes feed on fish and are quite good at catching them. I hope you won't be worried about this animal in your pond since they're eager to stay away from you if you swim or fish there. Farm ponds are also subject to having too many fish in a small area causing stunting but your snake will eat a few of the smaller fish and help keep things in balance.
John Wiessinger ( June 27, 2006)