Western Mud Snake

This species is listed as "rare" in Missouri. State herpetologist Jeff Briggler and retired herpetologist Tom Johnson provide information about this colorful snake in this video.

This is a shiny, iridescent snake of the southeastern swamps. It is shiny black on top and the belly is red, pink and orange with some black spots. The tail of most specimens ends in a sharp point, which is harmless. Length ranges from 40 to 54 inches (102-137 cm). This species lives in and near the large swamps in the southeastern corner of the state. Mud snakes have specialized food habits; primarily, they eat an aquatic salamander called the three-toed amphiuma. Mud snakes also eat salamanders, tadpoles and fish. A myth associated with this species contends that it can place its tail in its mouth and roll downhill at high speed. We are not sure of the origin of this myth, but there is no scientific basis to it.

http://mdc.mo.gov/nathis/herpetol/snake/snake1.htm#nv8

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• western
• mud
• snake
• reptile
• wildlife
• missouri
• conservation
• outdoors
• nature
• rare
• species

[TheSnakeLUVER]

they are one of the coolest snakes in my opinion

[zakartaz]

That is a rare snake, but if you looked at the southern episode of Man, Woman, Wild they kill one and use it as bait to catch crawfish. I could be mistaken, but I'm pretty sure bc I collect pictures of snake patters / colors for artwork in nyc.

[DemonessOfFatality]

Gorgeous snake

[spudleyification]

"a very big snake" pahahah

[Crossss8]

Why would you kill one of these????? They are harmless

[inkspray]

Beautiful animal. Thanks for posting. Too bad they're difficult to keep in captivity, I'd love to start a breeding effort for these.

[guyglowmore1]

the only reason to catch a snake is if it's on the road before someone runs it over. then place it where it was pointed. otherwise it's best to leave them be as they have in important job to do and time is of the essence. small window of opportunity and many dangers exist. not easy being reptiles and phibians in 21st century.

[FRURMELLL]

I want to find one! Awesome!

[anonymous812]

I saw one in the bayou by my house it was the longest snake ive seen before.

[gabeherb345]

and your proud of that?