Southwest Florida Snakes

The Southern Black Racer or Coluber constrictor priapus, is an extremely common nonvenomous constrictor found throughout the Southeastern United States.

The beautiful and oft-maligned water moccasin or cottonmouth. A venomous viper that is abundant in south Florida's swamps and wetlands.

You'll often hear stories of these guys chasing people, which is an unfortunate misunderstanding based on fear and ignorance.

Usually what's happening is that the chase-ee has found themselves in between the snake and its only escape route. The only thing the snake can do at that point is to either act tough and show its famous gaping, white mouthed threat display or try to flee.

Obviously, while they're trying to flee, the snake moves rapidly toward the screaming bystander who runs in the opposite direction. By the time the person turns around, the water moccasin is long gone and the story starts to take shape.

Photographing Alligators in South florida — Duncan Metts Photography Florida’s Apex Predator. Also It’s cutest predator.

Yellow ratsnake. One of many non venomous constrictors native to South Florida. They are generally reclusive, avoiding humans whenever possible.

Nerodia fasciata pictiventris or "Florida water snake"

Nerodia fasciata pictiventris or "Florida water snake". These non-venomous snakes are prevalent throughout South Florida. They are live bearing and feed primarily on fish and amphibians found in or around water. They are completely harmless and inquisitive snakes that thrive in the hot, humid cypress swamps of South Florida.

Pictured below is a mating pair.

Agkistrodon piscivorous conanti or "Cotton mouth". These snakes have an undeserved nasty reputation. They are prevalent throughout Florida and their abundance means interactions with humans are numerous.

As with all snakes, Cotton mouths will only defend themselves if they feel threatened. If you respect their space, they will respect yours.

Thanks Jeremy Hargett for letting me work with and photograph your animals!

Puff adder shed preservation.