December 8, 2023

I'm known as a Banded Water Snake

I'm semi-aquatic and my body is heavy

I can be found everywhere in Florida

Except for the Florida Keys.

Special thanks to guest photographer, David Simpson.

Location: Fellsmere Grade Recreation Area

Sources: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/florida-snake-id/snake/southern-watersnake/

Photo and text © 2023 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

April 2, 2018

Location: Vero Beach, Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area

I am a Banded Watersnake
I just ate something totally delish.
You can tell by the huge bulge in my belly,
It was probably a frog or a fish.

You can determine my identification
By the black lines on my chin
As well as the brown stripes on my side
But don't pick me up or you will get bit.
But I'm non-venomous and won't kill you,
I'll mostly try to get away from you lickety split.

Sources: Facts About Water Snakes

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson