Banded watersnake
A species of Water snakes Scientific name : Nerodia fasciata fasciata Genus : Water snakes
Banded watersnake, A species of Water snakes
Scientific name: Nerodia fasciata fasciata
Genus: Water snakes
Content
Description General Info
Description
Banded watersnake is a semi-aquatic, nonvenomous snake found primarily in fresh and brackish water bodies. It utilizes a live-bearing reproductive strategy, producing fully-formed offspring instead of laying eggs. Fascinatingly, banded watersnake employs a unique hunting behavior, feigning death to lure in prey, demonstrating an intriguing survival mechanism.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Banded watersnake's dietary propensity is predominantly piscivorous, with a specialized focus on fish. This species also displays an opportunistic feeding strategy, incorporating various aquatic creatures, amphibians and small mammals when available. A predilection for slow-moving or stationary prey has been observed.
Appearance
Banded watersnake is a moderate-sized snake with a robust body. It is covered in smooth scales with distinct longitudinal bands of brown, red, and cream colors. The pattern changes slightly towards the tail, resembling a checkerboard. Juveniles may show brighter colors and more contrasting patterns. They lack any additional characteristics like horns, wings, or fur.
Behavior
Banded watersnake exhibits diurnal behavior, typically seen basking in the day to absorb heat for digestion and energy. Notably, it hunts amphibians and small fish using its keen sense of smell and heat-sensing pits. This non-venomous snake is primarily solitary, aggressively defending its territory during the breeding seasons. It also exhibits a peculiar death-feigning behavior for survival when threatened.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Water snakes Species
Banded watersnake 
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