Famous for its bayous, marshes, and lush vegetation, Louisiana is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including several kinds of snakes.
Although the majority of these reptiles do not provide a threat to humans, some lakes within the state have gained notoriety for housing a greater number of these sly animals.
This article explores the Louisiana lakes that are well-known for having large populations of snakes, including crucial details for anyone doing outdoor activities in the Bayou State.
Lake Maurepas
Lake Maurepas is a sizable lake in Louisiana that is home to many snakes. This is a secluded place with a lake covering approximately 15,000 acres. Because of this, the lake is picturesque, replete with cypress and tupelo swamps.
The lake receives water from the Amite, Blind, Natalbany, and Tickfaw Rivers, among other nearby freshwater bodies. The untouched environment and indigenous fauna provide an excellent habitat for snakes.
The lake is home to around eighteen different species of snakes. The ball python, gray ratsnake, glossy swampsnake, and mudsnake are a few examples.
Lake Claiborne
Another lake, Lake Claiborne, is home to about 26 distinct species of snakes. The 6,400-acre Lake Claiborne is an artificial lake, which makes it special. There’s a lot of fishing in the rural area around here.
The pygmy rattlesnake, Texas coral snake, rough earthsnake, flat-headed snake, Graham’s crayfish snake, and diamondback water snake are a few of the snake species that may be encountered here.
The distinctive red, yellow, and black stripe pattern of the Texas coral snake makes it easy to identify this dangerous snake.
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Lake Pontchartrain
Lake Pontchartrain is reportedly one of the snake-infested lakes in Louisiana. Stretching 24 miles from south to north, the vast body of water spans 630 square miles.
Mostly freshwater, the lake attracts a wide range of snake species.
A few of the more frequent ones in the region are the glossy swampsnake, eastern copperhead, brahminy blindsnake, pygymy rattlesnake, timber rattlesnake, ball python, gray ratsnake, western ratsnake, scarlet snake, and mudsnake. One of the most frequent water snakes, common water snakes can also be found in lakes.
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Calcasieu Lake
Located on the Texas–Louisiana boundary lies Calcasieu Lake. Calcasieu Lake features a tranquil natural setting with lots of marsh, just as Lake Maurepas. Numerous animals can be seen thriving in the marsh ecosystem in the Chenier Coastal Plain.
Among them are ducks, shrimp, and Gulf Menhaden. These are a rich source of food for snakes. Calcasieu Lake is home to over 26 distinct species of snakes.
Among them are the glossy swamp snake, Texas coral snake, northern cottonmouth, timber rattlesnake, and eastern copperhead.
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Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake is bordered by Texas and Louisiana. The lake is the biggest freshwater lake in the South, spanning 25,400 acres. There is a stunning cypress forest ecosystem surrounding the lake.
Given the stunning surroundings, it is understandable that the lake is the site of several leisure events. There are fewer snakes on this lake because of the increased human activities there.
The lake is home to three different kinds of snakes: the northern cottonmouth, the western ratsnake, and the North American racer.
Read Also: Top Snake-Infested Lakes in Virginia You Should Know About
To Conclude
With their distinct ecosystems and plethora of animals, Louisiana’s lakes provide amazing views of the surrounding landscape. But especially in rural settings, it’s critical to be mindful of the possibility of snake presence.
Even while most snake encounters end happily ever after, knowing what kinds of snakes are common in various lakes will help you take the appropriate safety measures.
Safety comes first at all times. Keep a safe distance from snakes, wear appropriate shoes, and exercise caution while at the water’s edge. You can take in the natural beauty of Louisiana’s lakes without jeopardizing your health if you observe safety precautions and respect the ecosystem.
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