Water moccasins, also known as cottonmouths, are found in Oklahoma. Recognizing these venomous snakes and distinguishing them from harmless species is important for safety.
Identifying Characteristics
Water moccasins are heavy-bodied snakes, typically 1 to 4 feet long. Their coloration varies, from olive or brown to nearly black, often with darker crossbands that may become indistinct with age. A key feature of these pit vipers is their distinctly triangular-shaped head, which is noticeably broader than their neck due to prominent venom glands.
They have heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils. Their pupils are elliptical and cat-like, unlike the round pupils of many non-venomous snakes. A broad, dark facial stripe often camouflages their eyes. When threatened, a water moccasin may gape its mouth wide, revealing the strikingly white, cotton-like interior, which gives it the common name “cottonmouth.”
Common Habitats and Activities
Water moccasins are semi-aquatic snakes, primarily found in and around water bodies across the eastern half of Oklahoma. They prefer slow-moving or still waters such as swamps, marshes, ponds, lakes, ditches, and the edges of rivers. While strongly associated with water, adults may sometimes move away from aquatic environments and can be found in nearby forests or on hillsides.
These snakes are active from early spring through late fall, often basking on logs, rocks, or branches along the water’s edge. They are opportunistic predators, consuming a varied diet that includes fish, amphibians, small mammals, birds, and even other snakes. They also scavenge.
Distinguishing From Harmless Snakes
Many harmless water snakes in Oklahoma are frequently mistaken for venomous water moccasins, leading to unnecessary fear or harm to non-venomous species. Harmless water snakes, such as northern water snakes and broad-banded water snakes, have slenderer bodies and longer, thinner tails compared to the water moccasin’s thick body and short tail.
Unlike water moccasins’ distinctly triangular head and narrower neck, harmless water snakes have slenderer heads that blend smoothly with their bodies. A key visual difference lies in their eyes: water moccasins have vertical, slit-like pupils, whereas most non-venomous water snakes have round pupils. Heat-sensing pits are present in water moccasins but absent in non-venomous water snakes. When swimming, water moccasins often float with most of their body on top of the water, while harmless water snakes typically swim with their bodies submerged, showing only their heads. Non-venomous water snakes may flatten their heads when threatened to appear more intimidating, but their heads appear flattened rather than inherently thick and blocky.
Safety Precautions and Encounters
To minimize risk, be vigilant near water bodies where they inhabit. Wearing appropriate footwear, such as boots, and long pants can offer some protection. Avoid reaching into unseen areas like rock piles, under logs, or dense vegetation where snakes might be resting. Give any snake ample space, as water moccasins generally prefer to retreat.
If a bite occurs, immediate medical attention is necessary. Do not attempt to capture or kill the snake, but if possible and safe, take a picture for identification purposes. Clean the bite area gently with soap and water, and remove any jewelry or tight clothing from the affected limb before swelling begins. Keep the bitten limb still and at approximately heart level, and call 911 or a local emergency number promptly. Avoid traditional remedies like applying a tourniquet, cutting the wound, or attempting to suck out venom, as these actions can cause more harm.