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Mississippi Green Watersnake
Scientific Name: Nerodia cyclopion
Aquatic and Terrestrial
Native
Snakes
Nonvenomous
A medium snake- 16 to 50 inches long. Dark gray-green, olive, or dark gray above, with a row of small, dark, square markings along the upper sides, alternating with a row on the lower sides and middle of the back. Underside is pale yellow with diffuse gray spotting that increases toward the tail. Scales are keeled (ridged) in 23 to 27 rows.
Range and Habitat
Found in the southern part of the state and the Red, Ouachita, and Mississippi River valleys. Prefer large, permanent bodies of water, especially in open country and around open cypress lakes and marshes with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Behavior
Either active during the day or night depending on temperatures. Frequently observed basking along marsh margins. Feed almost exclusively on fish. Give birth to 8 to 34 young.
Population Status
Populations are considered stable within the state.