However, recent taxonomic changes do not recognize any subspecies of cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) as a valid taxa.

The resulting taxonomy does not recognizes the eastern cottonmouth (A. p. piscivorus) as a valid taxon.

[7][8] Several subsequent reviews and species accounts have followed and supported the revised taxonomy.

The scales are keeled and dark broad stripes on the face disguise the eyes, which cannot be seen when viewed from above, and have a vertical (cat's-eye) slit like pupil.

[3] The United States in southeastern Virginia, the Atlantic Coastal Plain and lower Piedmont of North and South Carolina, including the banks, peninsulas and islands along the Atlantic coast, and west across Georgia (see map).