The Northern Water Snake is another very common snake in New Jersey. It frequents nearly everybody of freshwater in the state. They can be found in lakes, rivers, small streams, swamps, and marshes. These snakes prey on frogs, minnows, insects, etc. They are notoriously moody and can deliver one of the most painful bites of any of our snakes. They also grow to be quite large. Average water snakes are around 3 feet, and are often seen larger. The biggest ones are best not tangled with. Some will become very docile when handled, but most go berserk and will bite wildly. A water snake bite should be thouroughly cleaned, and (I know) can swell a bit and itch a good deal. They have a considerable amount of bacteria in their mouths and an effort should be made to keep ointment or peroxide handy if you plan on catching water snakes. These snakes are sometimes confused with copperheads (one of New Jersey's two venemous species) and often killed. However, with a bit of consideration, it is easy to distinguish Nortern Water Snakes from a Copperhead. If you are unsure however, it is best to simply leave the snake alone.
