Cottonmouth

Cottonmouth/Water Moccasin

(Agkistrodon piscivorus)[5]

Distribution:

The Cottonmouth is found throughout the coast and partially into the foothills. The Cottonmouth tends to live in areas with year-round or partially draining bodies of water. Lakes, streams and ponds are all likely habitats for Cottonmouths. You have the highest chance of running into a Cotton mouth while swimming in a body of water. They can be found mostly in the southeast United States. They do tend to travel out while it is raining. (Louis, 2016)

Range of Cottonmouths in North Carolina[4]

Description: 

The Cottonmouth can be about 3 feet as a full grown adult. Like most vipers, the Cottonmouth has cat slit eyes. The head of the Cottonmouth is triangular and distinguishable from the rest of the body. The skin tone is dark olive or brown with black bands and a more yellow underside. This snake can have a very faded band coloration so it may be hard to notice the colors from a distance. The mouth is the most telling feature. When the snake is approached or poising to strike it opens its mouth. The inside of the mouth is a bright white with occasional brown features.

Cottonmouth warning[6]

Dark olive Cottonmouth blending[7]

Toxins and Bite Statistics:

The toxin itself is a hemotoxin, meaning it effects the proteins of the blood and surronding tissues. The Cottonmouth venom can cause an inability to clot in the blood and lysis (bursting) of red blood cell. If bitten by a hemotoxic snake, it can cause quick loss of blood as well death of surronding tissues (Wilson 2003). While the Cottonmouth does not have a rattle, it does hiss and uses its large white mouth as a way to intimidate and stand its ground. The Cottonmouth will also use its ability to swim easily as an escape route if confronted. The hemotoxin it uses is very similar to the Copperhead in how it effects the body and to what extent it can degrade the skin (Louis 2016)

What to do if Bitten:

If you are bitten, it is important to remain calm. Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake which bit you. Call the Carolina's Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. When you do call, try your best to recall what snake bit you. Attempt to clean the wound if you have access to soap and water. Cleaning with warm soap and water helps to prevent further infection. Make sure that you don't cinch off the skin around the wound. If you can, elevate the wound above the heart. If you can not reach the CPC for whatever reason, call 911 immediately. The police can help you find a local hospital with antivenom. If you can, have a family member or friend take you to the nearest hospital where you can receive proper treatment.