I photographed this Water Moccasin as it was coming out of the water (that was covered in duckweed) onto a road. This was at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
Water Moccasin Covered In Duckweed
In the southeastern United States, you can find the venomous Water Moccasin, also called Cottonmouths. They are often considered a danger to humans and animals alike because of their poisonous bite. However, it is cool to see a Water Moccasin covered in duckweed, which makes it a unique and interesting sight.
Duckweed is a type of aquatic plant that floats on still waters such as ponds and swamps. It offers a home to a variety of aquatic creatures and also helps to reduce water evaporation and improve water quality. What does it mean when a Water Moccasin is covered in duckweed?
It is possible that the snake is using the duckweed as camouflage. Snakes typically use camouflage to blend in with their surroundings and protect themselves from predators. In this case, the snake may be using the duckweed as a means of hiding from birds or other predators that hunt from above.
Another possibility is that the snake is regulating its body temperature. Water Moccasins are cold-blooded, and their body temperature is determined by their environment. The duckweed might be providing shade for the snake and helping it stay cool on a hot day.
Lastly, the snake could simply be passing through the area and got some of the duckweed on it. Water Moccasins are strong swimmers and can swim through dense mats of duckweed.
Gear Used:
- Camera:Â Canon EOS R5
- Lens: RF100-500Â mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: August 19, 2022 (08:09 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/800
- ISO: 1250 (Auto)
- Exposure Compensation: +1/2 EV
- Focal Length: 500 mm
Here is another of my photo of aWater Moccasin:Â Water Moccasin Crossing Gravel Road