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FACT BRIEF

Are plain-bellied water snakes venomous?

By Georgie London
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NO

The plain-bellied water snake is non-venomous. 

The snakes are found across the U.S., extending as far west as Oklahoma and Texas. They are usually found near permanent water sources. When the weather is more hot and humid, they can be seen away from the water.

However, the plain-bellied water snake is often confused with the venomous cottonmouth water moccasin commonly spotted in Texas. 

There are a few differences in the appearance of these two snakes that can help people differentiate between the two.

The plain-bellied water snake has a slender body shape and a slender or flattened head. The venomous cottonmouth has a heavy body shape, a blocky head and a neck narrower than its head.

Plain-bellied water snakes will bite when captured or threatened.

This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
Sources
iNaturalist Plain-bellied Watersnake
Outdoor Alabama Plain-bellied Water Snake
University of Florida Department of Wildlife Ecology & Conservation Harmless Watersnake or Venomous Water Moccasin?
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Fact briefs are short, credibly sourced summaries that offer “yes/no” answers in response to claims found online. They rely on publicly available, often primary source data and documents. Fact briefs are created by contributors to Gigafact —a nonprofit project looking to expand participation in fact-checking and protect the democratic process. See all fact briefs here.