No. 006 · snake · Risk: High
Cottonmouth
Agkistrodon piscivorus
In season · SeptemberSoutheast
- Field tell
- Dark, thick-bodied; found in or near water, shows white mouth lining when threatened.
- Season
- Active nearly year-round in the Deep South; most active March–November elsewhere.
SNAKEBITE
If someone is bitten
- Move a safe distance from the snake — don't try to identify or catch it.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
- Keep the person calm and still; keep the bite at or below heart level.
- Remove rings, watches, and tight clothing near the bite before swelling starts.
- Do not cut the wound, apply ice, use a tourniquet, or try to suck out venom.
Not medical advice. Call 911 or Poison Control 1-800-222-1222.
Related snakes
- Western Diamondback — Diamond blotches; black-and-white banded tail above the rattle.
- Eastern Diamondback — Largest venomous snake in North America; bold dark diamonds edged in cream.
- Timber Rattlesnake — Dark chevron crossbands on yellow-brown body, solid black tail.