Myth 9: Snakes Can’t Bite Underwater
There is no guarantee that familiarity will lead to understanding.
Cottonmouths can hunt prey while submerged, but one dangerous myth claims they can’t strike underwater. In fact, they do. Please exercise caution around them, whether you’re hiking or swimming.
Since your scientific name (Agkistrodon piscivorus) literally means “hooked-toothed fish-eater,” people naturally assume you spend a lot of time in the water.
Despite its size, it can deliver a painful and potentially fatal bite as an adult. The tendency for individuals to bite is increased when they feel threatened or are handled in any way.
