This semiaquatic snake occurs in a wide range of habitats, usually in the vicinity of streams, lakes, ponds, sloughs, ditches, swamps, and marshes (Rossman et al. 1996, Werler and Dixon 2000, Ernst and Ernst 2003, Trauth et al. 2004). Sometimes it occurs in terrestrial habitats, but generally close to water. It feeds on earthworms, crayfish, lizards, fishes, frogs, and tadpoles (Rossman et al. 1996). It is a live-bearing species.

Distribution extends from southern Wisconsin and Ohio, in the central United States, southward on the Atlantic versant to Belize and then discontinuously to northern Costa Rica, and on the Pacific versant from Guerrero to Chiapas, Mexico, and from El Salvador southward to central Costa Rica. Elevational range of this species extends from sea level to 2,500 meters (Wilson and Johnson 2010).

Currently, this species is of relatively low conservation concern and does not require significant additional protection or major management, monitoring, or research action. It is present in several protected areas.