Watch a Curious Cottonmouth Follow a Kayaker Uncomfortably Close

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Anytime you’re exploring the great outdoors, you’re likely to cross paths with a variety of wildlife. This is especially true in the southeastern United States. Most of the time, these creatures go about their day without paying much attention to passing humans. However, one kayaker’s experience took a rather unexpected turn when a curious cottonmouth snake decided to follow along for the ride.

Where Do Cottonmouth Snakes Live?

Cottonmouth snakes (also known as water moccasins) are native to the southeastern United States. They are the most aquatic species in their family and are commonly found in slow-moving waters such as rivers, swamps, and marshes. You may also commonly see them basking in the sun on rocks, logs, or branches near the edge of the water. However, on occasion, a cottonmouth has been spotted as far as a mile away from any water source.

Cottonmouths are pit vipers and have distinct physical features. They have large, triangular-shaped heads with narrow necks and thick, muscular bodies. Their eyes have elliptical pupils like a cat, and they have two small “pits” on their faces that help them detect heat from other animals. Growing 3 to 4 feet long, cottonmouths are typically dark with darker bands. Older adults have very faint bands (or none at all), while younger snakes have very bold markings. Juvenile snakes have yellowish or greenish-tipped tails.

Are Cottonmouth Snakes Venomous?

Yes, cottonmouth snakes are venomous — their venom is even more potent than that of a copperhead snake. Cottonmouth snakes have cytotoxic venom, which means it breaks down proteins and destroys tissue.

Fortunately, people rarely die from cottonmouth bites due to the widespread availability of antivenom treatments. However, cottonmouth bites can cause severe tissue damage, swelling, and scarring. In extreme cases, amputation may be necessary if the bite is not treated quickly. The pain is typically less severe than a rattlesnake bite, but more intense than a copperhead bite.

What To Do If You See a Cottonmouth

Like the kayaker in the video above, encountering a cottonmouth can happen very unexpectedly. The key to any encounter with a snake is to not panic. Most snakes are shy and prefer avoiding humans. They generally won’t attack unless they are provoked, startled, or harassed. Many snakes will simply retreat, while others may try to warn you by coiling up their bodies and opening their mouths to reveal their iconic white interior (hence the name “cottonmouth”).

Here are some tips if you happen to cross paths with a cottonmouth:

• Stay calm. Although the snake in the video followed the kayaker, it did not display any signs of aggression and was likely just curious.
• Avoid sudden movements and back away slowly.
• Give the snake lots of space.
• Never try to pick a snake up or move it; this only increases the risk of being bitten.
• Watch your step anytime you’re outdoors. Many bites happen when people accidentally step on a snake.