Scientific Name : Nerodia clarki compressicauda

Sex : Neonate pair

Length : 12 inches (Average 2 – 3 feet)

Weight : ounces (Average 8 – 16 ounces)

Longevity : Captive Born 2004 (Lifespan 10+ years)

Breeding: Livebearer, up to 22 young, August

Range: Coastal mangrove swamps and offshore islands of south Florida

Habitat : Residents of the salt water marshes and coastal mangrove swamps of south Florida, they are the only marine North American snakes. They can be found basking on the vegetation and immense mangrove root tangles. The lack of freshwater in their environment makes them rely on rainfall pools for drinking water.

Food and Hunting : Primarily prey on small fish although crayfish and other marine crustaceans are taken. Often feed at small tidal pools created by receding tides where fish are trapped in dense concentrations. Care is taken not to swallow salt water as it would result in dehydration.

Conservation : Salt Marsh snakes are quite common throughout their range. However increased coastal development makes these snakes extremely vulnerable to human encroachment.

Captive Care : Their moderate size and colorful appearance make them a desirable captive. Despite their name however water snakes are very prone to skin problems if kept in too moist conditions. Kept in dry sanitary conditions and given ample heat and varied diet they can be a rewarding captive. Less aggressive than other water snakes they tend to tame easily.