Identifying snake

Thodrin91 · 06-04-15, 11:19 AM

We had a snake outside our work the other day. We are located near the Mason Dixon Line. We were able to capture it and let it free back into the woods behind our shop. My question is what species of snake is it. For it seems to have some characteristics of a copperhead but It's heard to tell with untrained eyes. I just want to be sure for if it comes back either we will have to do other methods of removal or simply set him free again for he is harmless. Any help would be appreciated.

FWK · 06-04-15, 06:19 PM

Hello Thodrin91. What you have there is a Water Snake (Nerodia sp.), it is nonvenomous. I don't know what you mean by the Mason Dixon Border, and without a location I'm not positive as to the species and subspecies. It looks like a Nerodia erythrogaster or one of its subspecies. A location would narrow it down. Regardless, it is a completely harmless fish and frog eater. If you do need to relocate it again, the nearest permanent body of water will probably be the best place for it. I'll post this on your other thread as well. If you have any more questions or pictures please don't hesitate to post.