After years of being an eco-educator, if there is one way to hook our students - it's through a species study. Choosing study material from the ecosystems you can access is terrific in a child-led outdoor classroom because it gives students hands-on learning and sparks additional conversations and questions. Let me be the first to say that although I stay in a learning posture daily, I do not know the answers to many of our students' inquisitive questions. I have no issue googling, relying on student knowledge, or going home and creating a lesson or area of study based on a popular topic of discussion.
That said, I always start with a species that grabs attention and is incredibly helpful to know about. When discussing Georgia Creek play, children, water snakes, and moccasins are the topics of choice.
The Information:
It's debated that there are five species of water snake in Georgia, but after research, we are going with six non-venomous Colubridae. My favorite article is 6 Types of TRUE Water Snakes in Georgia. This article is excellent for adults and children and is a great starting point for discussing snakes.
The six species of water snakes are:
Midland water snake.
Red-bellied water snake.
Brown water snake.
Northern water snake.
Banded water snake.
Green water snake.
You notice that Water Moccasins are not on this list. This is because these venomous snakes are not true watersnakes. That said, because they are often near water, excellent swimmers, and resemble the (nonvenomous) brown water snake - folks frequently call them watersnakes.
Let's go deeper:
The brown water snake and cottonmouth are two species of snakes commonly found in Georgia's waterways. These snakes are well-adapted to aquatic environments and play important roles in the local ecosystem. The brown water snake, also known as the Nerodia taxi pilot, is a non-venomous species that primarily feeds on fish, frogs, and other small aquatic animals. Its brown coloration helps it blend in with its surroundings, making it an effective ambush predator.
In contrast, the water moccasin, also called the cottonmouth, is a venomous pit viper known for its distinctive white mouth, which it displays as a warning signal when threatened. Cottonmouths are native to the southeastern United States, including Georgia. This species is often misunderstood and is known for being aggressive, although it typically prefers to avoid confrontation with humans. The water moccasin preys on fish, amphibians, and small mammals, using its potent venom to immobilize its prey. Recognizable by its dark coloration and white mouth lining, the cottonmouth is a semi-aquatic snake commonly found near water sources such as swamps, marshes, and streams. Despite its venomous bite, the cottonmouth plays a crucial role in controlling populations of small mammals and maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
Identifying the Difference:
The water moccasin, also known as the cottonmouth, and the brown water snake indeed share a resemblance that often leads to confusion among observers. Both species have similar coloration, with shades of brown and sometimes olive, making it challenging to distinguish between them at a glance. However, upon closer inspection, several key differences can help identify each species correctly.
One significant distinction lies in their head shape and size. The water moccasin typically has a more triangular head than the brown water snake, which tends to have a narrower and less distinct head shape. Additionally, the water moccasin has heat-sensing pits between its nostrils and eyes, a feature absent in the brown water snake. These pits aid the water moccasin in detecting prey through infrared sensing, giving it a unique advantage in hunting.
Furthermore, their behavior and habitat preferences differ as well. Water moccasins are semi-aquatic and often found near bodies of water such as swamps, marshes, and streams. Water Moccasin typically swim with their heads tilted above the water and their bodies riding on water surface. They are known for their aggressive nature when threatened, displaying a distinctive open-mouthed defensive posture that reveals their white, cotton-like inner mouth lining. On the other hand, brown water snakes, like most water snakes, swim underneath the water and are more docile and can be frequently seen basking on rocks or logs near water sources, preying on fish and amphibians.
While the water moccasin and the brown water snake may appear similar at first glance, a closer examination of their physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat preferences can help accurately distinguish between the two species. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper identification and ensuring safety and conservation efforts in their respective habitats.
Thank you, Georgia Wildlife, for consistently fueling our teaching materials <3
But Don't Get Too Close
Encountering the wildlife in water habitats can be a thrilling experience, but it's important to remember that we are guests in their homes. Respecting their space and observing them from a safe distance is not just a rule; it's a responsibility. By deeply understanding and truly appreciating these fascinating creatures, we can foster a greater respect for the biodiversity of our waterways and the intricate web of life that exists within them. So, let's tread lightly and leave only footprints, ensuring that these beautiful creatures continue to thrive in their natural habitats. By advocating for this respect and understanding, we're not just promoting the health of our waterways but also fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the ecosystem.
Hope this species study generates an abundant conversation! Don't forget to visit a creek and discuss the habitats where you would discover our snake friends!
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