The Texas Lakes With the Most Snakes

Texas is home to 96 species of snakes. Of those 96, 15% are venomous. While this is a small fraction of the snake population, that is still 14 species of snakes to be on the lookout for when spending time outdoors. What those outside of Texas may not realize is that the state is home to a population of water snakes. Fortunately, the water snakes are not venomous. Unfortunately, the cottonmouth snake is a semi-aquatic, venomous snake. It is often confused with the Northern water snake, which is why knowing the difference between the two is crucial when spending time at Texas lakes, where most snakes are found.

Caddo Lake

Caddo Lake is a 25,400-acre lake that straddles the border between Texas and Louisiana. The lake is the largest freshwater lake in the South, and legend has it that it was created by the New Madrid Earthquake of 1811, per the publication. However, geologists believe that the lake was formed over time by the “Great Raft,” a massive log jam in the Red River from the 12th century until the logs were removed in the 1830s. In addition to being a large lake, Caddo Lake is home to 32 different species of snakes. It is a mixed bag of whether they are venomous snakes or not. Some of the most common snakes at Caddo Lake include:

Given the mix of venomous and nonvenomous snakes at Caddo Lake, it is imperative to pay attention to surroundings both in and out of the water to give snakes their space to not become the victim of a snake bite.

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma, situated on the Texas-Oklahoma border, is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States. Built in 1944 after the completion of the Denison Dam on the Red River, the lake provides flood control, hydroelectric power, water supply for local communities, and a place for water recreation.

Lake Texoma is also home to a population of 32 different species of snakes. Some of the most common include:

Along with the venomous snakes, Lake Texoma is known for its alligators as well. Therefore, taking care and being observant when visiting is highly recommended so that a day of fun does not turn into something else.

Lake Livingston

Lake Livingston is a man-made lake that was completed in the early 1970s. The lake swallowed up towns as it was being filled. Consequently, locals claim the lake is haunted, from voices being heard to a woman in white being seen near the lake’s edge.

In addition to the potential paranormal activity, there are at least 32 different species that call Lake Livingston home. Some of the most common include:

Along with the snake population, there is also an active alligator population. Therefore, keep animals on a leash when visiting the lake to protect them from both getting bitten by snakes and becoming a snack for alligators.

Lake Fork

Lake Fork is a man-made lake created to provide water to local municipalities and corporations. It has become one of the most beloved fisheries in Texas, with some of the largest largemouth bass coming from the lake.

Lake Fork boasts at least 32 different species of snakes in and around the water. Some of the most common snakes include:

There are also several other venomous snakes at Lake Fork, including the desert massasauga rattlesnake, southern copperhead, western rattlesnake, and the rock rattlesnake. Consequently, it goes without saying that Lake Fork is a snake’s playground, and the probability is high of running into one or more when visiting.

Amistad International Reservoir

Amistad International Reservoir was constructed in an agreement between the United States and Mexico, allowing each country to benefit from a reservoir that provides “flood control, water conservation, power,” irrigation capabilities, and a recreational area. Completed in 1969, the reservoir is over 89,000 acres of water that both Mexico and the U.S. oversee to provide the surrounding areas with the water they need.

The Amistad International Reservoir is home to 12 different types of snakes. While this is fewer than other lakes in Texas, the snakes that live here are no less venomous than those in other parts of Texas.

For anyone looking to spend time at the reservoir, as with all other bodies of water where snakes are present, being alert is essential to stay safe. Generally, most snakes are not inclined to attack humans. The venomous ones will strike, though, if they feel threatened, which is why vigilance is of the utmost importance at Amistad International Reservoir and other lakes around Texas.