Liodytes pygea (non-venomous)

Black Swamp Snakes are small to medium snakes under two feet in length. Uniformly black on top with a bright red belly, these snakes can be distinguished from Florida Red-belly Snakes by their stouter bodies and aquatic habitats. These snakes seldom venture on land and are most abundant in thick aquatic vegetation. Because of their preferred habitat, they are not frequently encountered unless intentionally sought after.