TENNESSEE (DDN) – Tennessee, a landlocked state in the United States, is well-known for its natural beauty, particularly in the Great Smoky Mountains, which are dotted with lakes. Given how much tourists enjoy these bodies of water, it is critical to be mindful of the hazards they provide, such as snakes.
There are over a dozen local snake species known to live in Tennessee’s various lakes, with five having the largest concentration. Although seeing one while fishing, camping, or outings can be unpleasant, very few of them are poisonous.
They, like all snakes, frequently utilize hostility as a protection mechanism when they are approached or hurt, even unintentionally.
Reelfoot Lake
A series of earthquakes in 1811-1812 caused the Mississippi River to momentarily flow in reverse, resulting in this 15,000-acre basin of water. As a result, the state park has become well-known for its great boating, fishing, and wildlife habitat. This lake is home to several snake species, the most common of which is the broad-banded watersnake.
This snake can grow to 36 inches (91 cm) in length and is recognized by its broad brown stripes. Despite being a great swimmer, this snake rarely bites people because it is not venomous. Cottonmouths have been seen eating in trees near the lake, though.
Norris Lake
Norris Lake is the largest reservoir on a tributary to the Tennessee River. It covers 33,000 acres and has over 800 kilometers of shoreline, much of which is covered in forest.
Snakes require three conditions to thrive: a suitable habitat, an abundance of food, and a pleasant temperature. Norris Lake is an ideal habitat for all types of snakes.
The most numerous species in the area is the common watersnake, which is distinguished by its exceptional swimming skills. The average male has brown coloring with dark crossbands and can reach a length of 4 feet 5 inches (135 cm). Visitors should not be alarmed by these snakes because they are not venomous and are somewhat shy.
Dale Hollow Lake
With nearly 600 kilometers of shoreline, the lake covers 27,700 acres. As a result, it supports a diverse range of aquatic, insect, and animal species.
Although it is uncommon, encountering a snake here is feasible. The timber rattlesnake and common watersnake are the most commonly recorded species.
Even though the watersnake appears harmless, the wood rattler should not be underestimated. It has neurotoxic venom, which can kill newborn neonates. These snakes, which can grow to be 60 inches (152 cm) long and black in appearance, are equally frightening to witness. Fortunately, rattlesnakes have a noisy defense mechanism that, if seen, makes it simpler to avoid danger.
Chickamauga Lake
With 810 miles of shoreline and a surface area of over 36,000 acres, it’s easy to see why Tennessee is recognized as a bass fishing hotspot. These reptiles, particularly those that feed on small fish and amphibians, have ideal environments due to the dense foliage, shallow coves, and underwater vegetation.
These areas are frequently home to the common watersnake, which is occasionally confused with the more venomous cottonmouth. It is typically shy and non-venomous, but if threatened, it may become defensive. Copperheads, another species found around the lake, are toxic and can become aggressive if threatened.
Tim’s Ford Lake
It is one of the Bill Dance Signature lakes, covering only 10,700 acres, and offers a variety of activities that can only be properly appreciated by experiencing them firsthand, including hiking, fishing, wildlife events, and rustic camping.
Garter snakes, timber rattlesnakes, black king snakes, ring-necked snakes, and smooth earth snakes have all been reported in the area surrounding Tim’s Ford Lake.
The common garter snake is widely dispersed and characterized by its distinctive yellow stripes that run along its greenish-brown body. It usually grows to be between two and three feet long (60 to 90 cm).
Another notable species is the timber rattlesnake, which has a characteristic dark, chevron-patterned body and can reach 60 inches (152 cm) in length. If you come across it, proceed with caution because it is poisonous.
Conclusion
Be informed before leaving. If you want to go swimming but are afraid of snakes, research the local breeds and their habitats first. Snakes are predictable. If the place you want to fish in is not conducive to feeding, sunning, or reproducing, look for another site. Anglers, campers, hikers, and explorers can simply change their plans rather than waiting for native snakes to relocate, especially if the location is excellent for their needs.
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