VIRGINIA (DDN) – Over thirty species of snakes can be observed moving gracefully across Virginia. Interestingly, only three of these—the cottonmouth, copperhead, and timber rattlesnake—are venomous, and they all belong to the rattlesnake family.
While these snakes inhabit various regions across the state, certain locations provide an ideal mix of factors for their thriving, including abundant food sources, optimal temperatures, and sufficient shelter, resulting in significant snake populations.
Douthat State Park
Douthat State Park spans over 4,500 acres in the Allegheny Mountains, making it Virginia’s second-largest state park. The diverse terrains, featuring a sprawling 50-acre lake, create an ideal backdrop for a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, and birdwatching.
A diverse array of small species, such as rodents, amphibians, reptiles, and small birds, inhabit the vast natural area. A variety of snake species, including the dangerous timber rattlesnake, the black snake, the eastern hog-nosed snake, and common water snakes, rely on this abundance of prey for sustenance.
Interactions between humans and snakes frequently occur in Douthat State Park, a hub for numerous recreational activities. While most of these snakes are non-venomous, it’s still wise to steer clear of any snake you encounter.
Smith Mountain Lake
Smith Mountain Lake, the second-largest lake in Virginia, is a vast expanse of water located in the Roanoke area. With 500 miles of breathtaking coastline, this area promises endless enjoyment, nestled between the vibrant cities of Lynchburg and Roanoke.
Explorers come together to take advantage of the diverse activities available, including boating, jet skiing, swimming, and fishing. Dense vegetation and bushes provide habitat for small creatures such as lizards and amphibians near the shores of the lake.
A significant presence of various snake species, such as the eastern hognose, eastern ribbon, northern water, and black rat snakes, is attracted to the region due to the abundance of prey and the readily available water source.
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Dismal Swamp
The Great Dismal Swamp, a significant wetland located in the Coastal Plain Region, spans across northeastern North Carolina and southeast Virginia. Spanning approximately 113,000 acres, this vital East Coast habitat supports a diverse array of wildlife, featuring species such as bears, deer, raccoons, and river otters.
The cypress swamps, forest floors, and marshes of the region host an impressive array of snake species, such as pygmy rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths, and northern water snakes. Amphibians, small reptiles, mammals, and birds are especially attracted to the plentiful food sources available.
Encounters between humans and snakes are inevitable due to the diverse recreational opportunities offered by the Dismal Swamp, drawing in boaters, fishermen, nature enthusiasts, and hunters alike.
Blackwater Ecological Preserve
The Blackwater Ecological Preserve, situated in Zuni, Virginia, encompasses over 300 acres of untouched wilderness and is owned by Old Dominion University. A diverse blend of flatwood forests, longleaf pine savannas, and lowland swamps creates ideal habitats for numerous snake species, allowing them to hunt effectively along the woodland borders.
The northern copperhead, a prevalent species in the region, has managed to flourish due to the limited human presence in the park, which has protected it from undue harm.
Visitors must coordinate with the university in advance to schedule a tour of the venue.
The prevalence of guided tours significantly reduces the likelihood of human-snake encounters at the preserve, thereby safeguarding the snake’s habitat.
Lake Gaston
Lake Gaston is a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Situated along the Virginia-North Carolina border, Lake Gaston boasts a variety of fish species, such as largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish, attracting anglers eager for a successful fishing experience.
Visitors enjoy the tranquil lake, engaging in activities such as swimming, boating, paddle-boarding, and camping amidst its peaceful waters. While Lake Gaston captivates with its stunning allure, it also harbors a variety of snakes, including the venomous cottonmouth and copperhead, positioning it as one of Virginia’s most snake-populated areas.
Due to the lake’s status as a favored spot for leisure activities, encounters between humans and snakes are frequent. According to the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, this area experiences some of the highest occurrences of snake bites in the state. Regrettably, any unnecessary interactions that may threaten the snake, like stepping on it or disturbing it, can lead to a bite.
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