Keep in mind this is our first series. Advice and criticism accepted but keep it polite. If you cannot keep it polite then please feel free to contact one of us directly and we will address your concerns. Caches, if they are large enough, contain swag and FTF prizes
Have fun and be safe out there!
Dark brown or grey background color with a black or brown belly and uniformly colored black crossbands generally present, but they may not be very distinct against the dark background, with some individual snakes appearing not to have any vestiges of crossbands.
In Texas, adult cottonmouths measure between 76-105.5 cm (30-42 in); record length is 152 cm (60 in).
In the United States, the three subspecies of Agkistrodon piscivorus are found from central Texas, north to Missouri, east to the Virginias and south to Florida. There are no populations of cottonmouths found in Mexico. Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma, the only subspecies found in Texas, ranges from central Texas, including portions of the Edwards Plateau, to the eastern piney woods and south to the Gulf Coast.
Cottonmouths are venomous, and are therefore highly dangerous if approached or handled. They are not generally aggressive and will most likely flee any confrontation if given a chance to retreat. Cottonmouths are dark, faintly patterned snakes, best known for their defensive posture with a gaping, white lined mouth. The specific epithet piscivorus describes the one of the prey species of the cottonmouth fairly accurately: fish. The cottonmouth is also fond of frogs, mammals and other snakes. Although it may be commonly seen in lakes and ponds, areas frequented by humans, few human fatalities are recorded as a result of bites by cottonmouths.
The cottonmouth is extremely aquatic and is most at home near or in the water. Its cousin the copperhead is frequently found away from actual water and can be seen deep in woodland habitats.
Prevention is the key when dealing with snakes. Wear boots and heavy pants when hiking. Avoid walking in tall grass or underbrush and do not reach into rocky crevices, under logs or rocks. Do not try to kill a snake - ANY snake, and if you see what appears to be a dead snake, do not touch it. A snake can strike up to one hour after death.