Michigan has four species of water snakes: the northern water snake, the brown water snake, the banded water snake, and the eastern plains garter snake. These snakes are non-venomous and can be found near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and streams. Water snakes are excellent swimmers and often hunt for fish, amphibians, and other small aquatic animals.
These snakes play an important role in controlling these animals’ populations and help keep ecosystems in balance.
Michigan has many different types of water snakes, and they can be found in various habitats. The most common type of water snake is the garter snake, which can be found in nearly any body of water in the state. Other common types include the northern water snake, brown water snake, and eastern hognose snake.
Water snakes are important members of the ecosystem, as they help to keep the populations of fish and other aquatic creatures in check. They are also a popular food source for predators, including birds of prey, raccoons, and opossums. If you encounter a water snake while out hiking or swimming, there is no need to be afraid.
These snakes are generally not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened. If you are bitten by a water snake, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, as their bites can cause serious infections.
What Kind of Water Snakes are in Michigan?
Michigan has four different types of water snakes: the Northern Watersnake, the Eastern Watersnake, the Lake Erie Watersnake, and the Western Watersnake. These snakes are non-venomous and can be found near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and streams. The Northern Watersnake is the largest of the four water snake species in Michigan and can grow up to five feet in length.
This snake is dark brown or black with a light-coloured belly. It is often mistaken for a venomous snake but is harmless to humans. The Northern Watersnake can be found near Lake Superior and its tributaries.
The Eastern Watersnake is smaller than the Northern Watersnake, growing to a maximum length of three feet. It is similar to its northern counterpart but tends to be more colourful, with black, brown, and yellow bands on its body. The Eastern Watersnake can be found near the Great Lakes and their tributaries.
The Lake Erie Watersnake is only found on one island in Lake Erie called Snake Island. This small island is home to a large population of these snakes, which can grow up to four feet in length. Like other water snakes, the Lake Erie Watersnake is black or dark brown with a light-coloured belly.
These snakes are harmless to humans, but their bites can be painful due to their sharp teeth. The Western Watersnakes are the smallest type of water snake found in Michigan and only grow up to two feet long. They are brown or reddish-brown with darker bands running down their backs.
These snakes are not aggressive and typically only bite if they feel threatened or cornered.
Are There Any Poisonous Water Snakes in Michigan?
There are no poisonous water snakes in Michigan. The only species of snake that is native to the state and can be found in water is the common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), which is not poisonous. There are, however, three species of venomous snakes that are found in Michigan:
- The eastern massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus)
- The northern copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
- The timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
All three of these species are found in southern Michigan, and while they are not typically found in or around water, they can end up there if they seek shelter or food. If you come across a snake in Michigan, it is best to leave it alone and give it space – even if you cannot identify its species.
What Does a Water Snake Look Like in Michigan?
Michigan has many different types of water snakes, so it is hard to give a definitive answer. However, most water snakes are thin and have long bodies with smooth scales. They are often brown or black but can also be green or grey.
Some water snakes have patterns on their skin, such as bands or spots. Water snakes can grow quite large, with some species reaching over six feet in length!
Are There Water Moccasin Snakes in Michigan?
Yes, there are water moccasin snakes in Michigan. These venomous snakes, also known as cottonmouths, are found in the southern and eastern parts of the state. They typically inhabit wetlands but can also be found in wooded areas near waterways.
Water moccasins can grow over three feet long, and their bite is dangerous to humans. If you see one of these snakes, it’s best to leave it alone.
Michigan Northern Water Snake
Most of Michigan is home to the Northern Water Snake, a common nonvenomous snake found near water sources like ponds, streams, and wetlands. These snakes are typically black or brown with a light-coloured belly, and they can grow up to four feet in length. Although not venomous, Northern Water Snakes can be aggressive when threatened and bite if handled.
If you encounter one of these snakes in the wild, it’s best to leave it alone!
Michigan Water Moccasin Snake
There are many different types of snakes in Michigan, but one of the most dangerous is the water moccasin. Also known as the cottonmouth, this snake is a member of the viper family and is highly venomous. Water moccasins can grow over three feet long, and their bite is very painful.
They are found near water sources such as lakes and streams, and their diet consists mostly of fish. If you encounter a water moccasin, it’s important to stay calm and avoid panicking. Move slowly away from the snake, and do not try to capture or kill it.
If you are bitten by a water moccasin, seek medical attention immediately, as their venom can be deadly.
Copperbelly Water Snake Michigan
Copperbelly water snakes are a species of non-venomous snake found in the Great Lakes region of North America. They get their name from their copper-coloured bellies and can grow up to 3 feet long. Copperbelly water snakes are excellent swimmers and can often be seen basking on logs or rocks near bodies of water.
These snakes are primarily active during the day and prefer to eat frogs, tadpoles, and small fish. While they are not considered dangerous to humans, they bite if provoked. If you encounter a copper belly water snake, it is best to leave it alone!
Michigan Water Snakes Poisonous
Most people are surprised to learn that water snakes found in Michigan are not poisonous. These non-venomous snakes play an important role in the Great Lakes ecosystem by preying on fish, frogs, and other small aquatic animals. Although they are not dangerous to humans, water snakes can bite if they feel threatened.
If you encounter a water snake, it is best to leave it alone and give it a wide berth.
Garter Snake Michigan
If you’re lucky enough to spot a garter snake in Michigan, it’s likely of the common variety (Thamnophis sirtalis). These snakes are relatively small, growing to an average length of 3 feet. They’re also quite slender, with a diameter of about 1 inch.
As their name suggests, garter snakes are characterized by a stripe running down the length of their bodies. This stripe is usually yellow or green and is bordered on either side by a dark brown or black stripe. Common garter snakes are found throughout Michigan, inhabiting rural and urban areas.
These snakes typically prefer habitats with plenty of hiding places and ample prey. In Michigan, common garter snakes can be found in forests, fields, meadows, and gardens. These reptiles are active during the day and typically hunt for food at night.
Their diet consists mainly of small rodents such as mice and voles. However, they will consume frogs, lizards, earthworms, and insects if given the opportunity. Despite their relatively small size, common garter snakes can deliver a painful bite if they feel threatened.
However, they are not considered dangerous to humans and will typically only bite if provoked. If you encounter a garter snake in the wild (or in your backyard), it’s best to leave it alone and give it space to slither away!
Conclusion
Water snakes are a common sight in Michigan and come in various colours and patterns. The most common water snake in Michigan is the northern water snake, black or brown with dark crossbands. Water snakes are non-venomous and harmless to humans but can be aggressive if provoked.
If you see a water snake, it’s best to leave it alone and enjoy the show from a distance.
