Scales: Smooth

Anal Plate: Divided

Mud snakes are one of our most aquatic and secretive snakes. This species is rarely seen, except for warm summer nights, where it might be found crossing roads. They are usually burrowed in mud or in aquatic vegation.

This species is found in Southeastern United States. The species is divided into two subspecies, the Eastern subspecies can be found in the eastern half of the range, while the western subspecies are found in the western half other the range.

Mud snakes are a beautifully colored snake, glossy black on top with a checkered pattern of red and black on the belly. Adults are on average 4 to 5 feet in length. Hatchings are around six inches in length. There is a huge difference in sizes between adults and hatchings, scientists think its because it allows the snake to take advantage of the different life stages of their prey. Sirens and amphiumas are their main food item. Young sirens are around an inch or so in length, while adult sirens are around two and a half feet in length. Mud snakes will also eat Mud puppies, Tiger salamander larvae and tadpoles.

This subspecies was named in honor of Caspar George Carl Reinwardt (1773-1854), who was a professor of Natural philosphy at the University of Leiden, Netherlands.

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