1. 11.Freshwater Snakes 1

2. Some kinds of snakes can be found in the freshwaters of lakes, rivers, and streams 2 These freshwater snakes go into water to hide from enemies and to catch fish to eat

3. But most of the freshwater snakes come out of the water often 3 They spend much of their time on the branches of trees near the water, warming themselves in the sun

4. Most freshwater snakes look similar to land snakes 4 Some will bite if they are angered or afraid

5. The bite of most freshwater snakes is nonpoisonous 5 However, bites from any animal can lead to an infection

6. One kind of freshwater snake is the northern water snake 6 Its body has red-brown bands or spots on a yellow background

7. Like other freshwater snakes, the northern water snake gives birth to live young in the water 7 Right after they are born, the young snakes do not get any care from their parents

8. Most young reptiles can take care of themselves as soon as they are born 8

9. The cottonmouth is a very poisonous snake that lives in the southern United States (and Missouri) 9 Cottonmouths are found around swamps, marshes, and other wet places

10. For this reason, cottonmouths are thought of as freshwater snakes 10 Remember: They are also known as water moccasins

11. A cottonmouth has long, sharp teeth called fangs 11 When a cottonmouth bites, venom goes through its fangs

12. A cottonmouth feeds on frogs, fish, and other vertebrates 12 A bite from a cottonmouth is dangerous and can kill a person

13. The young of cottonmouths are born live 13 They are reddish brown, with brown bands with white edges

14. As they grow older, cottonmouths become dark olive or brown 14 The average length of cottonmouths is from 3 to 4 feet, but some can grow 6 feet long Click for Video Video from MDC