Red-bellied Mudsnake

One subspecies, Western Mudsnake (F. a. reinwardtii), occurs in the western coastal plain of Tennessee.  A large, heavy-bodied snake (40.0 to 54.0 inches in length), which is semi-aquatic. Smooth, glossy black snake with a red and black checkered belly; red extends up onto the sides, creating a red triangle pattern. Chin heavily marked with black and may be yellowish, creating a “zipper-like” appearance. Males are smaller and have shorter tails than females. Young have sharp tail tips in contrast to blunt tips for adults.

Similar Species: Copper-bellied Watersnake has a solid reddish belly.

Habitat: Typically found in stagnant, muddy waters of shallow streams, rivers, and swamps. Often found under rotten or water-soaked logs, or other debris.

Diet: Specialized diet preference of Three-toed Amphiuma or Lesser Siren.

Breeding information: Adults breed in spring. Females lay 11-50 leathery, creamy white eggs in sandy nest burrows or rotten logs. Females remain with their clutch of eggs until they hatch in late summer or early fall. Hatchling mudsnakes remain in the nest over the winter until the following spring.

Status in Tennessee: Infrequently seen due to its secretive nature; hence status is poorly known.

Fun Facts:

• Mudsnakes are known as “horn snakes” or “stinging snakes” because of their behavior of pressing their hard-tipped tail against the skin of their captors.
• Mudsnakes may play dead or go limp if handled too much.

Best places to see in Tennessee: Shallow waters and streams around Reelfoot Lake.