The capital of the state of Maryland is found towards the south of the state and is very close to the waterways of the Chesapeake Bay. If you live in Annapolis, you can often times get a glimpse of the wildlife that the Bay brings to the area. Some of that wildlife can have a tendency to find itself in your Annapolis home, including the Northern Water-Snake. The Northern Water Snake is found commonly throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. It can be identified by its round pupils and dark-colored cross brands down its body. The snake can typically grow up to 4 feet long and can be found on branches and rocks during the day as it basks in the sun to keep warm. The Northern Water Snake likes freshwater rivers and snakes as well as brackish water like the bay and actively swims during both the day and night. If you ever come across a Northern Water Snake, do not panic and mistake it for the Cottonmouth Snake. The Cottonmouth is venomous while the Northern Water Snake is not, however it will attack when it feels threatened. You can also tell if a Northern Water Snake is feeling threatened by the foul odor it releases. You can distinguish the Northern Water Snake from the Cottonmouth by its double rows of scales under the tail as well as its round pupils, but most often people do not wish to get that close to the snake. Instead, they call Mid Atlantic Wildlife Control to distinguish for them. If you find a Northern Water Snake in your home, call the professionals at Mid Atlantic Wildlife Control. We specialize in the humane removal of all 27 species of snakes found in Maryland, including the Northern Water Snake as well as the two venomous species of snake that can be found in the state. We are available at all hours of the day, seven days a week, so never hesitate to make the call when a snake has been spotted. To remove snakes from your home or property, call us at 443-417-3137 or visit our online contact page. We are available, so never hesitate to call. Follow Mid Atlantic Wildlife Control today on Google+, Pinterest, Twitter, and Facebook.
Source:
http://www.chesapeakebay.net/fieldguide/critter/northern_water_snake