Cottonmouths are relatively short, wide snakes with large triangular heads and horizontal markings. They are dark-colored and usually appear a deep olive brown, but older snakes can be almost entirely black.

These snakes can be found in a vast region of the U.S., spanning from Virginia to Florida, west to Texas, and as far north as Southern Illinois. They can live in most freshwater areas, but their favorite habitats are cypress swamps, river floodplains, and wetlands.

Water moccasins are very venomous snakes. Their venom causes great amounts of swelling, tissue damage, and in severe cases, death. Their meat-based diet also increases the risk of a bite leading to infection. Immediate medical attention is needed in all cases.

The non-venomous water snake has a similar color as the cottonmouth and lives in the same areas. Often confused, the easiest way to tell the difference between the two snakes is by the cottonmouth’s robust body. Both the cottonmouth’s head and body are wider than water snakes and other non-venomous snakes.

The best way to prevent snakes is by reducing their food sources in your area. This means removing piles of debris and trash from your yard where both rodents and snakes can hide. These snakes prefer to be by the water, so you’re more likely to come in contact with them if your property has a lake, pond, or stream. If you see a cottonmouth near your house, call Hughes Exterminators for professional snake control and removal rather than risking a bite from these dangerous snakes.