Florida Cottonmouth
TYPE: Reptile
STATUS:
Least Concern
QUICK STATS
Body size
2–6 feet long
native habitat
Marshes, lakes, swamps, streams, creeks, and ponds of Southeastern United States
life expectancy
15–20 years
diet
Small mammals, birds, baby alligators
Reproduction
10 live young
predators
Birds of prey, alligators, alligator snapping turtle
natural defenses
Venomous bite
About the Species
Also known as a water moccasin, the cottonmouth is one of six venomous species native to Florida.
This snake may not have a rattle as a warning mechanism, but they will open their mouth wide to display their cotton-white mouth before striking.
Agkistrodon conanti
Baby Florida cottonmouths are born with bright yellow tails that they use to lure frogs, a favorite food when they’re young.
