Brown-banded Water Snake
Helicops angulatus
A common, semi-aquatic South American snake with brown banding, well adapted to life in rivers, ponds, and marshes.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- South America, from Colombia and Venezuela to Argentina
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Brown-banded Water Snake is a widespread, highly aquatic colubrid found throughout much of tropical and subtropical South America. It is well adapted to freshwater habitats, spending much of its time in or near water.
A rear-fanged species, it is mildly venomous, using its venom to subdue slippery aquatic prey such as fish and amphibians rather than posing any real threat to humans.
How to identify it
- Brown to olive dorsal coloration with darker crossbands or blotches
- Pale, often yellowish or cream belly, sometimes with dark spotting
- Eyes and nostrils positioned high on the head, an adaptation for aquatic life
- Keeled scales giving a slightly rough texture
- Distinguished from similar water snakes by banding pattern and range
Habitat & range
Highly aquatic, inhabiting rivers, streams, ponds, swamps, and flooded forest throughout much of tropical South America, from lowland to moderate elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, though sometimes active by day, hunting fish and amphibians in water. Rear fangs deliver mild venom to help subdue prey. Gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Generally not aggressive but may bite if handled.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Brown-banded Water Snake dangerous?
It is mildly venomous but not considered dangerous to humans.
Where does it live?
Rivers, ponds, and swamps throughout much of tropical South America.
What does it eat?
Fish and amphibians.
Does it lay eggs or give live birth?
It gives birth to live young.
Brown-banded Water Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Brown-banded Water Snake.
