A Closer Look at Cottonmouth Snakes
Cottonmouths are a group of venomous snakes that inhabit the southeastern United States. The name “cottonmouth” comes from their tendency to open their mouths wide when threatened, revealing the white inside of their mouths. They are known by many other names, such as water moccasins, but they are all the same species, Agkistrodon piscivorus. It is a common misconception that they are different species.
Most people are familiar with the cottonmouth snake, but many are confused as to what it is. When a cottonmouth is first seen, most people thought that it was either a banded water snake or a juvenile cottonmouth snake (also called a water moccasin) but these snakes are actually the same species.
The cottonmouth is also known as the water moccasin. This snake is typically found in the southeastern United States and is a member of the viper family. This snake is venomous, but not fatally so. It is important to note that while cottonmouths are venomous, northern water snakes are not.
This species of snake is not only important to snake enthusiasts, but it also plays an important role in the energy industry. This is Cottonmouth's largest investment to-date. “Traditional gasoline used today is refined from crude oil and makes up over half of the United States’ energy consumption. Cottonmouths can help reduce this dependence by providing a renewable source of energy.”
Cottonmouths are part of a larger group of venomous snakes known as pit vipers. They include rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths, among others. All of these snakes have a distinctive triangular-shaped head and vertical pupils in their eyes. When threatened, a cottonmouth will open its mouth and reveal the white interior, giving it its name.
The cottonmouth snake is also an important part of southern culture. It is the namesake of popular restaurants like Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen and the Birdrock Taco Shack. On Saturday, June 3, the Birdrock Taco Shack will be joined by Stumpy Joe at Cottonmouth for a 7 p.m. show, featuring some of the area’s best blues.
Cottonmouth snakes, also known as water moccasins, are cousins of copperheads — a venomous snake frequently seen in the Triangle. They are typically found in areas with still water, such as swamps, ponds, and lakes. Cottonmouths can grow to be up to five feet long and can be identified by their characteristic dark brown or black bodies with distinctive yellow crossbands.
Owner and chef David Shiplett—also the owner of popular Cottonmouth South Soul Kitchen—doesn't serve up just any tacos. His menu features a variety of dishes inspired by the local cottonmouth snake, from tacos to enchiladas. All of his ingredients are locally sourced and the food is prepared with care and attention to detail. With such delicious dishes, it’s no wonder that Cottonmouth South Soul Kitchen is a local favorite.
Cottonmouths are an important part of the southeastern United States, both in terms of energy production and culture. By learning more about these snakes, we can better understand and appreciate their role in our environment.
