Certain lakes and rivers in the U.S. have become prime habitats for snakes due to a combination of environmental factors. Warm, humid climates provide the perfect conditions for snakes to thrive. An abundance of prey—such as fish, frogs, and rodents—ensures they have plenty to eat. Additionally, human activity, like building reservoirs or clearing wetlands, often displaces snakes, pushing them into new water systems where they flourish.
The Types of Snakes Found in These Infested Waters
These lakes and rivers are home to a variety of snake species, ranging from highly venomous to large, intimidating constrictors:
- Venomous Species:
- Cottonmouths (Water Moccasins): Found in the southeastern U.S., these semi-aquatic snakes are aggressive and highly venomous.
- Copperheads: Common near riverbanks and lakes, often mistaken for harmless water snakes.
- Rattlesnakes: Some rattlesnake species, such as the eastern diamondback, occasionally venture into wetland environments.
- Non-Venomous but Large and Intimidating:
- Water Snakes (Nerodia species): Often mistaken for cottonmouths due to their aggressive behavior when threatened.
- Burmese Pythons & Anacondas (Florida): These invasive species have been found in lakes and swamps, rapidly expanding their range.
Why the Problem Is Getting Worse
Snake populations in these lakes and rivers are exploding, and there are several key reasons:
- Climate Change: Warmer temperatures mean longer active seasons for snakes, allowing them to hunt, reproduce, and expand their territory.
- Invasive Species: Pythons, anacondas, and other non-native species introduced to the U.S. are multiplying without natural predators.
- Human Expansion: As suburban development encroaches on snake habitats, human-snake encounters increase dramatically.
10 Most Snake-Infested Lakes and Rivers in the U.S.
These waterways have some of the highest snake populations and frequent encounters with people:
10. Lake Okeechobee, Florida
- Species: Burmese pythons, cottonmouths, rattlesnakes, water snakes.
- Why It’s Infested: The lake’s size (730 square miles) and surrounding wetlands provide a perfect environment. The Burmese python invasion has made this area particularly concerning.
- Notable Incident: In 2021, a 17-foot Burmese python was captured near the lake, breaking records.
9. Mississippi River (Multiple States)
- Species: Copperheads, water moccasins, various water snakes.
- Why It’s Infested: The river stretches over 2,300 miles, covering numerous ecosystems, many of which are ideal for snakes.
- Notable Incident: Fishermen frequently report seeing dozens of snakes swimming at a time.
8. Atchafalaya Basin, Louisiana
- Species: Water moccasins, coral snakes, cottonmouths.
- Why It’s Infested: This massive swamp is full of murky waters, ideal for hiding.
- Notable Incident: In 2020, a snake-filled tree fell onto a fishing boat, scattering water moccasins into the water.
7. Lake Texoma, Texas/Oklahoma
- Species: Cottonmouths, copperheads, water snakes.
- Why It’s Infested: The warm climate and heavy vegetation along the lake make it an ideal hiding place.
- Notable Incident: In 2022, a family’s boat was surrounded by 12 water snakes while they were fishing.
6. Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia/Florida
- Species: Cottonmouths, rattlesnakes, king snakes.
- Why It’s Infested: The combination of swampy terrain and plenty of small prey attracts snakes in large numbers.
- Notable Incident: In 2021, a 10-foot eastern diamondback rattlesnake was spotted near a popular hiking trail.
5. Everglades National Park, Florida
- Species: Burmese pythons, water moccasins, eastern diamondback rattlesnakes.
- Why It’s Infested: This park has become a breeding ground for invasive pythons, making it one of the worst snake-infested areas in the U.S.
- Notable Incident: Park rangers captured a 215-pound python containing 122 eggs, the largest clutch ever found.
4. Tennessee River, Tennessee/Alabama
- Species: Copperheads, cottonmouths, banded water snakes.
- Why It’s Infested: This river spans multiple states and runs through densely forested areas where snakes thrive.
- Notable Incident: In 2023, kayakers reported a cottonmouth launching itself onto a canoe.
3. Lake Jesup, Florida
- Species: Water moccasins, pythons, garter snakes.
- Why It’s Infested: Home to one of Florida’s largest alligator populations, which coexist with a massive snake population.
- Notable Incident: An 8-foot-long snake was found wrapped around a dock post, spooking boaters.
2. Red River, Texas/Louisiana
- Species: Rattlesnakes, copperheads, water moccasins.
- Why It’s Infested: This river regularly floods, forcing snakes into residential areas.
- Notable Incident: In 2020, a flood pushed hundreds of snakes into a neighborhood, leading to a record number of snakebites.
1. Fisheating Creek, Florida
- Species: Cottonmouths, pythons, rattlesnakes.
- Why It’s Infested: This remote creek is filled with fallen trees and thick vegetation, creating perfect ambush spots.
- Notable Incident: A fisherman suffered a cottonmouth bite that resulted in death within 5 seconds due to a severe allergic reaction, making this one of the most dangerous locations for snakes.
Signs That a Waterway Might Be Infested with Snakes
- Frequent snake skins or sheds along the shoreline.
- Sudden, unexplained splashes in the water.
- Dead fish or frogs with visible bite marks.
How to Stay Safe in Snake-Infested Waters
- Wear boots and long pants when walking near lakes or rivers.
- Avoid tall grass and brushy shorelines where snakes hide.
- Never reach into logs or brush piles without looking.
- Stay calm if you see a snake—most bites happen when people panic.
What to Do If You Get Bitten
- Remain as still as possible to slow venom spread.
- Call 911 immediately—do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
- Do not suck out venom or use a tourniquet—this can cause more harm.
- Identify the snake (if safe) for proper antivenom treatment.
Conclusion
Snake-infested lakes and rivers are becoming more dangerous due to climate change, invasive species, and expanding human development. While most snakes avoid humans, their increasing numbers make encounters more common. Being informed about which areas are highest-risk and how to stay safe can prevent snakebites and ensure you enjoy nature without unwanted surprises.
Author at Animals Around The Globe. BSc Sociology
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
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