One of Ohio’s most abundant snakes ready to mate, give birth to 20-25 young
(WJW) – Mating season is just around the corner for one of Ohio’s most abundant snakes.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as temperatures rise, northern watersnakes start to come out of their winter denning sites in search of a mate. Then, in late summer, the females will give birth to live litters averaging 20 to 25 young.
In Ohio, experts say northern watersnakes may inhabit just about any permanent body of water and can reach up to 3.5 feet in length.
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The northern watersnake isn’t venomous, but experts warn it will bite in self-defense.
“Water snakes usually flee from people, but when grabbed, they are quick to defend themselves. They bite viciously and large ones are capable of producing painful, deep lacerations,” reads a Reptiles of Ohio Field Guide. “When picked up, they invariably secrete an obnoxious smelling substance from their musk glands.”
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Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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Mating season in Ohio typically occurs in April and June, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. There are three species of watersnakes in Ohio.
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