In the article “Are There Water Snakes in Oregon?” by Wildlife Informer, it is explained that while there are no true water snakes in Oregon, there are several species of semi-aquatic snakes that can be found in the region. True water snakes, classified under the genus Nerodia, are non-venomous snakes that primarily live near water sources and wetlands. On the other hand, semi-aquatic snakes like the Pacific coast aquatic garter snake and the Western terrestrial garter snake can be found in and around aquatic environments in Oregon. The article highlights the differences between true water snakes and semi-aquatic snakes and provides interesting facts about the species found in the region.
True water snakes
Genus Nerodia
True water snakes are a group of snakes that belong to the genus Nerodia. This genus includes nine different species, all of which are native to North America. While none of these water snakes can be found in Oregon, they can be found in other parts of North America. Members of the genus Nerodia include the N. paucimaculata, N. transverse, N. cyclopion, N. erythrogaster, N. harteri, N. rhombifer, N. sipedon, N. fasciata, N. taxispilota, and N. clarkii. These water snakes are typically found near water sources such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They spend the majority of their time in and around these aquatic environments.
Species of Nerodia
All species of Nerodia are non-venomous and feed mainly on fish, frogs, and other small aquatic organisms. They have heavy bodies and can grow up to 4 feet long. Unlike other species of snakes, water snakes do not lay eggs. Instead, they give birth to live young. This is known as ovoviviparity. The females retain the fertilized eggs inside their bodies until they are ready to hatch, and then give birth to fully formed juvenile snakes. Water snakes have a lifespan of up to 7 years in the wild.
Semi-aquatic snakes
Definition of semi-aquatic snakes
Semi-aquatic snakes are a group of snakes that spend the majority of their time on land but can also be found near or in water. They typically inhabit moist environments such as marshes, swamps, and lakes. While they are not true water snakes, they are adapted to survive in and around aquatic environments.
Species found in Oregon
In Oregon, there are two species of semi-aquatic snakes that can be found: the Western terrestrial garter snake and the Pacific coast aquatic garter snake. These snakes are not classified as true water snakes, but they can be found in and around aquatic environments.
1. Western terrestrial garter snake
Description
The Western terrestrial garter snake, also known as Thamnophis elegans, is a species of semi-aquatic snake. It is known for its gray-brown or black coloration and dark checkered pattern between yellow stripes. The snake can grow to a length of 18 to 43 inches.
Scientific Name
The scientific name of the Western terrestrial garter snake is Thamnophis elegans.
Length
The Western terrestrial garter snake can grow to a length of 18 to 43 inches.
Range
This species of snake can be found in most of Oregon, although it is absent from the north and central coast region, the east slope and crest of Cascade Mountains, and a small portion of central Oregon.
Habitat
Western terrestrial garter snakes inhabit moist and wet areas near slow-moving water bodies such as streams and ponds.
Behavior
They are active during the day and seek shelter in small crevices or holes to avoid predators. In the winter months, they hibernate.
Breeding
Breeding takes place in the spring, after hibernation and when temperatures rise. Mating occurs once a year, with females giving birth to an average of 12 live young after a gestation period of 2-3 months. Both males and females reach sexual maturity at the age of two.
Venom
The Western terrestrial garter snake is non-venomous.
Lifespan
On average, Western terrestrial garter snakes can live up to 7 years in the wild. However, they are known to live up to 15 years when kept in captivity.
Aggression
While Western terrestrial garter snakes are not venomous, they can become aggressive if they are startled or disturbed. It is best to observe these snakes from a distance and not attempt to handle them or provoke them in any way.
2. The Pacific coast aquatic garter snake
Description
The Pacific coast aquatic garter snake, also known as Thamnophis atratus atratus, is another species of semi-aquatic snake. It can be easily identified by its distinctive pattern featuring an olive brown to gray background, with three longitudinal yellow stripes running down its body.
Scientific Name
The scientific name of the Pacific coast aquatic garter snake is Thamnophis atratus atratus.
Range
This species of snake is found along rivers in southwestern Oregon, as far north as the Umpqua Valley in Douglas County.
Habitat
The Pacific coast aquatic garter snake prefers wet meadows, riparian areas, marshes, and moist forests near rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds.
Behavior
It is an excellent swimmer and will dive into the water to evade predators or seek refuge. The snake is most active during the day and can be found basking in the sun on rocks, logs, and vegetation near bodies of water.
Feeding
The Pacific coast aquatic garter snake feeds on small fish, fish eggs, salamanders, tadpoles, frogs, toads, earthworms, and leeches in its natural habitat.
Venom
The Pacific coast aquatic garter snake is non-venomous.
Aggression
Similar to the Western terrestrial garter snake, the Pacific coast aquatic garter snake can become aggressive if startled or disturbed. It is best to observe these snakes from a distance and not attempt to handle them or provoke them in any way.
Commonly asked questions about the snakes found in Oregon
Venom of Oregon snakes
Neither the Pacific coast aquatic garter snake nor the Western terrestrial garter snake is venomous to humans. However, the latter is equipped with mild venom, which it uses to subdue its prey. This venom can cause irritation if you come into contact with it.
Reproduction of Oregon snakes
Aquatic and semi-aquatic snakes do not lay eggs. Instead, they give birth to live young. This process is known as ovoviviparity, where the mothers retain the fertilized eggs inside their bodies until they are ready to hatch. The mother then gives birth to fully formed juvenile snakes.
Lifespan of Western terrestrial garter snakes
On average, Western terrestrial garter snakes can live up to 7 years in the wild. However, they can live up to 15 years when kept in captivity. The longer lifespan in captivity is due to the consistent supply of food and shelter, which helps them avoid predators and other environmental threats.
Aggression of Oregon snakes
Both the Pacific coast aquatic garter snake and the Western terrestrial garter snake can become aggressive if they are startled or disturbed. Given that their mouths are lined with tiny, sharp teeth, their bites can be painful. It is best to observe these snakes from a distance and not attempt to handle them or provoke them in any way.
What to do if you encounter a water snake in Oregon
If you encounter a semi-aquatic snake in Oregon, the best thing to do is observe it from a distance and give it plenty of space. Do not attempt to touch or capture the snake. Contact your local wildlife center or the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for assistance if the snake appears injured or distressed.
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