Natrix rhombifera rhombifera, the Diamond Back Water Snake is found throughout most of Texas. They prefer habitats close to permanent water. The genus Natrix contains many species of water snakes and these belong to the Colubridae family which is one of the largest families of snakes worldwide. Colubrids in the U. S. are the nonpoisonous snakes that act to control the population numbers of various small animals.
Natrix rhombifera rhombifera prey on fish, frogs, salamanders, and crayfish. When cornered, or threatened, these snakes will attack and bite. This kind of behavior and their resemblance to the venomous Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin gets them killed despite the benefits they provide to the ecosystems where they live.
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