Striped Water Snake

Tropidonotus rigidus, (Say)

Colouration: Dark brown or olive brown--paler on the sides--with two narrow black stripes extending along the back. The abdomen is yellow, with two rows of brown or black dots. With occasional specimens the spots on the abdomen follow one another so closely as to produce the effect of two bands, with serrated edges. The under surface of the tail is immaculate.
Dimensions: Attains a length of about twenty inches. The width of the head fully equals the diameter of the thickest part of the body.
Distribution: The distribution of this rather scarce little serpent is not well known, but general observations point to the range being limited to the southeastern portion of the United States, from Pennsylvania to Florida inclusive, the Gulf States and adjacent area to the north.
Habits: Practically nothing appears to be known about the habits of the species, although it appears to resemble the Queen Snake in actions, and to frequent small brooks as does that species.

Very small as compared with other species. Stout in form, with larger head than our other striped water snakes.

The top of the head is dark; the upper lip plates (labials) are yellow.