Sometimes a coiled snake is prepared to strike, but this Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon) was definitely not ready for action. The snake seemed total relaxed as it basked in the sun, curled up above the surface of the water on some dried up vegetation.
I really like the texture of the snake’s skin, but there was no way that I was going to reach out and touch it. Telephoto lenses are a good thing in situations like this.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
Mike Powell 
It was nice of him to pose for the shot. Do you have poisonous snakes there as well?
I have been told that there are no poisonous snakes in the park, though someone else told me there might be copperheads. As I recall, the Northern Water Snake is supposed to be able to deliver a painful bite that bleeds a lot, because there is an anti-coagulant in the saliva.
oh, did not see this response. I think there are copperheads in the counties near DC and if you go out to the mountains like Bull Run Mountain off of Route 66, there are definitely rattlers out there.
what a picture mike, was this at Huntley Meadows? Is this snake poisonous?
This was at Huntley Meadows, adjacent to the boardwalk. As far as I know, the snake is not poisonous.
That’s a big one! I don’t think I have ever seen one sit this still. Great shot,
Thanks, Sue. I think that they are still warming up from the winter and are a bit sluggish.
Great title. It looks like you carefully placed him in that position.
Wise choice to leave him alone, Mike. He looks very stout and muscular. Love the pose!
What park is this taken from?
Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria, Virginia.
Ohh, I saw a similar snake there last year. It was big but I don’t think it was dangerous!
Ok I totally jumped when this photo popped up.
You captured the strength and beauty of this creature very nicely.