In addition to being well-known for its lush farms and undulating hills, Iowa is home to an unexpectedly large number of lakes that are home to a variety of snake species.
When visiting these aquatic areas, even though the majority of snakes are harmless to humans, it’s important to be aware of their existence and adopt the appropriate safety measures.
For those who enjoy the great outdoors and the natural world, this post will highlight the top 5 snake-infested lakes in Iowa.
Saylorville Lake
Saylorville Lake spans 16,700 acres at full flood level, making it one of Iowa’s largest reservoirs. It came about as a result of the Saylorville Dam being built, which the US Congress approved in 1958 in order to regulate Des Moines River flooding.
In addition to preventing floods, it has developed into a thriving leisure haven with a wide range of facilities along its beaches. Saylorville Lake is home to a diverse array of fauna, including fish, mammals, amphibians, and birds, contributing to its complex environment.
There is a robust population of venomous and non-venomous snakes among them, so be cautious. On the lakeshore, sightings of copperheads and timber rattlesnakes are not unheard of, which can pose a risk to visitors who enjoy themselves.
Lake Red Rock
Iowa’s largest reservoir, Lake Red Rock, is more than 15,000 acres in size. It came into being in 1969 with the damming of the Des Moines River. It is a hub for leisure activities in the area and is roughly 45 miles from Des Moines.
Amphibians, birds, and small animals are among the many wildlife species that call the lake and its environs home. These species provide an ample supply of prey for a healthy population of snakes.
The most frequently observed snake species are brown and black rat snakes, which are frequently seen hunting tiny prey on the grassy lakeshores. Additionally, you can come across venomous species like prairie rattlesnakes and copperheads.
West Lake Okoboji
The state’s deepest natural lake is West Lake Okoboji, commonly known as West Okoboji Lake. It is the focal point of the five-lake Iowa Great Lakes chain.
The backdrop for the many reactionary activities on the lake is provided by the cities of West Okoboji, Wahpeton, Arnolds Park, and Okoboji, which are situated on the lakeshore.
The non-venomous species that are more frequently found are the eastern garter snake and the northern water snake. However, because copperheads can bite humans, you should use caution when investigating the lake’s perimeter. The timber rattlesnakes are no different, despite their extreme rarity.
Read Also: Beware of Snakes: The Most Infested Lakes in South Carolina
Lake Wapello
The lake is surrounded by more than 1,000 acres of verdant forests and gently rolling terrain, providing the ideal backdrop for boating, kayaking, fishing, and canoeing sports.
Some visitors only come to the park and lake to observe the local wildlife in action. Although seeing birds and small creatures is always pleasant, many people find it frightening when they come across a snake.
Fortunately, aside from the occasional deadly timber rattlesnake, the majority of species found here, such as the common garter snake and milk snake, offer little to no threat to humans.
Read Also: Utah’s Snake Hotspots: The 5 Lakes with the Most Snakes
Coralville Lake
Although it’s one of the biggest lakes in the state, people love it because of its pure water. It is a popular destination for recreation, drawing thousands of Iowans and other Midwesterners who come to partake in a variety of water-based activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
Fish, birds, animals, reptiles, and other fauna are among the many species that call Coralville Lake home. Snake sightings whilst swimming or tanning on the lake’s edges are a frequent complaint from visitors.
Among the most prevalent species are smooth green snakes, which frequently blend in with the grassy shorelines. In the meantime, despite sightings are rare, the water moccasin is a venomous snake to beware of.
Read Also: Snakes on the Shore: The 5 Most Snake Infested Lakes in Kansas
To Conclude
Although the lakes in Iowa provide picturesque scenery and enjoyable activities, it is important to be aware of the possibility of snake encounters.
You may enjoy your outdoor experiences safely by being aware of the types of snakes that may be present in these regions and by taking the appropriate measures.
Wear suitable shoes and clothes at all times, use caution while crossing rocky or tall grassy areas, and keep your surroundings free of potential snake hiding places.
Give a snake some space if you come across one, and avoid trying to handle or agitate it. Recall that the majority of snakes are harmless and would rather stay away from people.
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