no photo — written note
Animals
A thick, banded, non-venomous water snake that is constantly mistaken for a cottonmouth and killed for it.
Field facts
HabitatPonds, rivers, lake shorelines, marshes
RangeStatewide
When to lookApril to October
StatusLeast Concern (Indiana DNR / IUCN Red List)
Look-alikesCottonmouth — southwest only, blocky head, gapes white
Field note: Bands are widest across the back at the front of the body and reverse toward the tail.
Lesson
Watching responsibly
Learn the difference and let it be; it is harmless and important.
Your records
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