Yes, snakes are commonly found in and around lakes, as these bodies of water provide a rich and diverse habitat for many species globally. Lakes support both fully aquatic and semi-aquatic snakes. The snakes found near lakes are primarily non-venomous, though some regions also host venomous species, making identification and safety awareness important for lake-goers.
Common Non-Venomous Freshwater Species
The most frequently encountered non-venomous snakes in North American freshwater environments belong to the genus Nerodia, commonly known as watersnakes, including the Northern Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon) and the Banded Watersnake (Nerodia fasciata). They can grow to be moderately thick-bodied and reach lengths of two to four feet. Their coloration typically ranges from brown, gray, or reddish, often featuring dark crossbands or blotches that become less distinct as the snake ages. Older individuals may appear almost entirely dark, which unfortunately leads to frequent misidentification as venomous cottonmouths.
Watersnakes are non-aggressive, but they will bite repeatedly if cornered or handled, often releasing a foul-smelling musk as a defense mechanism. Their heads are relatively rounded, unlike the distinct triangular shape of pit vipers, and their pupils are round. Another common lake inhabitant is the Garter Snake (Thamnophis species), which is smaller and more slender than watersnakes, often displaying three distinct stripes down its body. These snakes are highly adaptable and may be seen near the water’s edge hunting small prey.
Behavioral Reasons Snakes Use Lake Environments
Snakes are ectotherms, meaning they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature, and lakes provide an excellent mechanism for this process, known as thermoregulation. During hot weather, moving into the cooler water or finding shaded areas near the bank allows them to prevent overheating. This is a common function of their semi-aquatic lifestyle.
Lakes are also prime hunting grounds, offering a consistent food source of fish, amphibians, and other small vertebrates. Watersnakes often hunt in shallow water, using their sense of smell and sight to locate prey, which they swallow alive. Furthermore, the water and surrounding vegetation offer a means for movement and shelter, allowing snakes to travel between basking spots and hunting areas or to hide from potential predators. They can frequently be seen basking on logs, rocks, or overhanging branches near the water’s surface to absorb heat.
Distinguishing and Safely Interacting with Venomous Water Snakes
In the southeastern United States, the primary venomous aquatic snake is the Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus), also known as the Water Moccasin. Distinguishing this pit viper from harmless watersnakes is based on several physical features and behaviors. Cottonmouths have a thick, heavy body and a notably broad, triangular-shaped head that is distinctly wider than their neck. Non-venomous watersnakes have more slender bodies and heads that are more rounded, although they may flatten their heads when threatened in an act of mimicry.
A key difference is the eyes: the Cottonmouth has vertical, slit-like pupils, similar to a cat’s eye, while watersnakes have round pupils. Cottonmouths possess heat-sensing pits located between their eyes and nostrils, which are absent in non-venomous species. Behaviorally, Cottonmouths often swim with their entire body floating on the water’s surface, whereas non-venomous watersnakes tend to swim with their bodies mostly submerged. When threatened, the Cottonmouth will often coil its body and display the bright, white interior of its mouth as a visual warning.
The safest interaction with any snake is avoidance, as most bites occur when people attempt to capture or kill a snake. If you encounter a snake, remain calm and slowly back away to give it space to retreat. Never step or put your hands where you cannot see, particularly in dense brush or near logs along the water’s edge. If a bite occurs, seek immediate medical attention, keeping the bite area immobilized and below the level of the heart. Do not apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, or attempt to suck out the venom.