Many different snake species can be found in Missouri because of the state’s varied terrain and profusion of wildlife.
Although the majority of snakes are not dangerous to people, some lakes in the state are well-known for having a large number of poisonous reptiles.
We’ll examine these notorious lakes that are filled with snakes in this post, giving you the knowledge you need to enjoy the outdoors safely.
Harry S. Truman Reservoir
The largest body of water on this list is the Truman Reservoir, which bears the name of Harry S. Truman, the former president of Missouri. The region needs to handle floods because it is 55,500 acres in size typically and 200,000 acres at flood stage.
Slithering along shallow regions, the most likely sighting is the brownish silhouette of the common water snake. In a similar vein, there are several darker western rat snakes that climb trees along the coast.
The prairie kingsnake, a medium-sized snake distinguished by its brown to gray coloring, is one of the area’s less well-known snake species.
Smithville Lake
This lake was formed in Clay County on the Platte River by the Smithville Dam in the late 1970s. It is now a picturesque lake with a surface area of more than 7,000 acres and a charming 175-mile shoreline.
Along with being home to several poisonous and non-venomous snakes, Smithville Lake is also one of Missouri’s most snake-infested bodies of water.
The most frequent type of snake is the DeKay’s brown snake, which may grow up to 19 inches (49 cm) in length and has a brown to gray coat. Despite not being poisonous, this snake can get aggressive if provoked, therefore it’s best to keep a safe distance from it.
The eastern copperhead, garter snake, and common watersnake are some of the other snakes that can be found in the area.
Table Rock Lake
The Table Rock Dam formed this reservoir in the 1950s, and it currently has an amazing surface area of more than 43,000 acres. For this reason, it’s a fantastic location for swimming, fishing, boating, and scuba diving.
Due to its exceptional agility and mobility, the common watersnake is the most skilled in the water. This species is distinguished by its brown or reddish coloring and dark crossbands.
Additionally, some individuals grow to be as long as 4 feet 5 inches (135 cm), making it a quite huge species. Fortunately, common watersnakes are not poisonous, so long as you keep your distance, you should be safe.
You May Also Read:
- Beware of Snakes: Montana Lakes Where Snakes Are Common
- Dangerous Waters: Georgia’s Lakes with the Most Snakes
- Where Snakes Rule the Waters: Iowa’s Most Snake-Infested Lakes Revealed
Lake Of The Ozarks
Another lake teeming with snakes in Missouri is Lake of the Ozarks, also referred to as “the Missouri Dragon” due to its unusual serpentine shape.
You’ll probably come across the western rat snake in the water because these snakes are quite skilled swimmers. The normal adult’s length ranges from 3 feet 6 inches to 6 feet (106.5 cm to 183 cm), and their coloration is glossy black or gray.
When in this lake, you should keep an eye on the trees and the water since these snakes are very skilled climbers.
It is recommended to stay away from any snakes in this area, including the non-venomous species mentioned earlier and the infrequent sighting of the eastern copperhead.
Final Thoughts
The lakes in Missouri provide picturesque landscapes and a plethora of recreational options, but it’s vital to be mindful of the possible risks involved in coming across snakes.
Your outdoor experiences can be safely enjoyed if you are aware of the snake species that inhabit these lakes and take the appropriate safety measures.
Always use caution, stay away from upsetting snakes, and get medical help right once if you get bitten.
By: worldatlas.com
Leave a Reply