Many people believe water moccasins are harmless while cottonmouths are the truly dangerous ones — but they’re actually the same snake. Both names refer to Agkistrodon piscivorus, the only venomous water snake in North America. Keep reading to learn how to identify these snakes, where they’re found, and what makes cottonmouths (or water moccasins) so unique.
About the Author
A-Z Animals Staff
AZ Animals is a growing team of animals experts, researchers, farmers, conservationists, writers, editors, and -- of course -- pet owners who have come together to help you better understand the animal kingdom and how we interact.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the AZ Animals editorial team
Thank you for your feedback!
We appreciate your help in improving our content.
Our editorial team will review your suggestions and make any necessary updates.
There was an error submitting your feedback. Please try again.