Nerodia species vary greatly, but all are relatively heavy-bodied snakes, sometimes growing to 1.2 m (4 feet) or longer in total length (including tail).

[citation needed] While their initial instinct is to flee when disturbed, water snakes of the genus Nerodia readily defend themselves if they are unable to escape.

[citation needed] Nerodia species are viviparous, breeding in the spring and giving birth in the late summer or early fall.

[3] Due to how widespread and extremely common they are in the wild, water snakes of the genus Nerodia are often found in the exotic pet trade, throughout the United States, though they are rarely captive bred.

Due to their habitat choice, defensive disposition, and vague similarity to the venomous cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), they are frequently mistaken for them.