Water moccasin
A species of Moccasins, Also known as Black moccasin, Viper, Lowland moccasin, True water moccasin, Northern Cottonmouth Scientific name : Agkistrodon piscivorus Genus : Moccasins
Water moccasin, A species of Moccasins
Also known as:
Black moccasin, Viper, Lowland moccasin, True water moccasin, Northern Cottonmouth
Scientific name: Agkistrodon piscivorus
Genus: Moccasins
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Dawson , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Agkistrodon piscivorus is a venomous snake, a species of pit viper in the subfamily Crotalinae of the family Viperidae. The species is endemic to the southeastern United States. As an adult, it is large and capable of delivering a painful and potentially fatal bite. When threatened, it may respond by coiling its body and displaying its fangs. Although its aggression has been exaggerated, individuals may bite when feeling threatened or being handled in any way. This...
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Water moccasin primarily feeds on fish and amphibians, employing a sit-and-wait hunting strategy. It exhibits a strong preference for catfish and bullfrogs, and occasionally consumes small birds and rodents.
Appearance
Water moccasin is a medium to large-sized semi-aquatic snake with a thick, heavy body. Its skin is scaly and can range from olive-brown to black, often covered with dark crossbands. It possesses a broad triangular head distinctly wider than its neck. Juveniles typically show stronger contrast than adults. A unique feature includes heat-sensory pits located between their eyes and nostrils.
Behavior
Water moccasin exhibits a solitary, nocturnal lifestyle, often hunting for amphibious prey near water bodies. Their primary foraging method involves ambush predation, lying in wait then striking with deadly venomous bites. Sensing heat with pits on its head, water moccasin generally avoids confrontation by camouflaging in vegetation, making it an effective stealthy predator.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Moccasins Species
Water moccasin 
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