Every year on July 16, we celebrate World Snake Day, a global event that shines a spotlight on one of nature’s most misunderstood creatures. Today, I’m sharing a recent encounter I had with a fascinating water snake at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
A Surprising Encounter on the Arkansas River
While photographing along the Arkansas River, my friend Mia, a fellow photographer, pointed out a ripple cutting through the water’s surface. I quickly realized it was a water snake, gliding gracefully just below the surface. I managed to capture a sharp, close-up image as it flicked its tongue, likely sensing prey or navigating its surroundings.
The Importance of Snakes in the Ecosystem
Snakes often get a bad rap, but they play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. As both predators and prey, snakes help control populations of pests such as rodents, insects, and even fish. This balance is vital for the health of wetland and riparian habitats like the one I visited at the refuge.
Water Snakes vs. Cottonmouths: Know the Difference
The snake I photographed is a non-venomous water snake, often mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth or water moccasin. While they share similar habitats and coloring, water snakes have round pupils and more slender heads, while cottonmouths have triangular heads and vertical pupils. Understanding these differences helps reduce unnecessary fear and promotes coexistence.
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge: A Snake-Friendly Habitat
The Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for reptiles, birds, and other wildlife. With its rich floodplain ecosystem, the refuge provides ideal conditions for snakes to thrive. I’ve encountered several species here over the years, but this water snake sighting stood out for its clarity and timing, just days before World Snake Day.
Respect and Appreciate, Don’t Fear
World Snake Day is a chance to appreciate these often-misjudged reptiles. They are not out to harm us. Most snakes, like the one I saw, prefer to be left alone. By respecting their space and learning more about them, we can help protect their habitats and reduce negative encounters.
Take a moment today to learn about the snakes native to your area or plan a visit to a local refuge. You might just come away with a new respect for these elegant and essential creatures.
I love snakes! My father taught all the kids in our rural area how to deal with snakes. We were overrun with copperheads. He never killed a snake, he trapped them and traded them for king snakes, which he released to help control the copperheads. I’ve always been the person in my neighborhood to call when that big scary garter snake was in the yard. I release them in a state park. My sisters are the same. Thanks dad!