One may think of wide-open areas and amiable farm people while thinking of Kansas, a state noted for its enormous plains and bright wheat fields. However, a different kind of excitement lurks beneath the surface for certain adventurers: snakes!
This article reveals which five lakes in Kansas are most well-known for having scaly inhabitants. Whether you love to spend a leisurely day by the seaside, are an avid birdwatcher, or are an avid angler, be ready for the possibility of coming across these intriguing, sometimes misinterpreted animals.
Now that you have your binoculars (and perhaps a good measure of respect), let’s tour some “Snake Centrals” in Kansas!
Wilson Lake
Covering 9,000 acres, Wilson Lake, often called Wilson Reservoir, is regarded as one of the most picturesque locations in Russell County, Kansas.
Regarding reptiles, you may come across the Western Rat Snake, which has been observed in this area of Kansas. It is distinguished by its black head, tail, and keeled scales. Its cream-colored belly contains blotchy spots.
Large bodies of water, wooded areas, and hillsides make up its native habitat. Despite being safe for people, animals like birds, rabbits, and rodents suffer because they are the Western Rat Snake’s primary food source.
Milford Lake
The largest lake in Kansas, Milford Lake, is located in Geary County. Nestled amidst the renowned Flint Hills, it boasts more than 160 miles of coastline with sandy beaches and recreational boat launches. Also popular with visitors are kayaking, canoeing, and camping.
While you enjoy your vacation to Milford Lake, you may encounter an Eastern Hog-Nosed snake that slithers across your path. However, don’t let its rough scales, thick body, and raised nose scare you.
They are harmless to people, however they prefer to hide in forests and close to bodies of water. For this kind of snake, there is only one food item available: toads.
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Melvern Lake
Fresh water, lovely sunsets, and serviced campsites are enjoyed by guests. Melvern Lake allows hunting as well, depending on the season. Here, too, the Common Water Snake is perfectly content to eat fish, frogs, and toads.
With its half-moon-shaped speckles and similar appearance to the Diamondback water snake, it can be found anywhere there is water. They are completely safe to people, though they do prey on fish, frogs, and toads.
However, if they should manage to crawl past your legs while you’re swimming at Melvern Lake, they can definitely give you a scare.
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Hillsdale Lake
The lake, which has 8,000 acres of surrounding public areas and 4,600 surface acres of surface area, is perfect for recreational use. Because this area is a part of the natural habitat for water snakes, it is not out of the question that you may come across one while enjoying the waters.
Of all the water snakes in Kansas, they are the least aquatic, favoring lakes and mountain streams.
They are about 55 inches long, and can be recognized by their cream-colored belly and dark brown pigmentation. The primary distinguishing factor in differentiating the Graham’s Crayfish Snake from other local snakes is their exclusive consumption of crayfish.
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Lone Star Lake
Within the boundaries of Douglas County, Kansas, lies a true gem: Lone Star Lake. The 185 acres of this lake are entirely artificial.
The Rough Green snake is one of the snake species that could be found here. It is easily recognized by its bright green, slender body and yellow underside, and it is most active during the day.
You can be confident that they are totally safe if one slithers past your toes when you’re hiking the surrounding paths around the lake. The only food the Rough Green snake eats is insects.
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To Conclude
Kansas’ “Snake Centrals” provide an opportunity to see these amazing reptiles up close, from the Western Rat Snake at Wilson Lake to the Rough Green Snake at Lone Star Lake.
Recall that you can safely visit these stunning lakes and enjoy the distinctive animals they are home to with a little information and respect. Happy exploring (and watching out for snakes)!
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