Florida Cottonmouth

Cottonmouths (venomous) are semi-aquatic and are often found near bodies of water such as swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams. They are excellent swimmers and can be frequently observed basking on branches or rocks near the water's edge. Their affinity for aquatic habitats earned them the nickname "water moccasin."

When threatened, cottonmouths exhibit a distinctive defensive behavior; they open their mouths, revealing the white interior, which gives them their common name "cottonmouth." This behavior is often accompanied by hissing or vibrating their tail in brush to create a rattling sound similar to that of a rattlesnake. Despite this intimidating display, cottonmouths are generally non-aggressive and prefer to retreat rather than confront potential threats.