Adaptations
Photo by JD Willson
In order to survive, all forms of life must be able to adapt
to their surroundings, the same goes for Northern Banded Water
Snakes. These snakes have evolved many different adaptations to
survive and prosper in their every day life.
One of the most important adaptations, that all chordate members exhibit, is the presence of a coelom. The coelom is a cavity that houses and protects the animals internal organs among other things. Along with a coelom they have a well developed digestive tract, respiratory system and circulatory system. When you look at it in the bigger scheme of things, these snakes are not so different from us!
Nerodia sipedon can grow to be over three feet long, and they can exhibit many different color combinations, usually having a grey or brown background with stripes or markings being brown or reddish in color. However, it is shown that the bigger the snake gets the darker the skin. Some of the largest snakes can exhibit solid black or dark brown skin. Photo by A.B. Sheldon
It is thought that this particular snake is able to communicate with other members of the same species. Although the communication is minimal, it is accomplished mainly through touch and smell. The snakes also use their sense of sight, and their amazing ability to detect vibrations in order to find and hunt down their prey.
These snakes have also developed some adaptations in order to escape potential predators. Nerodia sipedon is able to remain submerged under water for up to 90 minutes when diving down to avoid predators!