Near the numerous lakes, rivers, and woodlands that make up West Virginia’s varied landscape, snakes flourish.
The lakes in this area of the United States that are hotspots for a variety of native snake species are highlighted below.
These bodies of water offer plenty of habitat for everything from non-venomous water snakes slithering among lily pads to timber rattlesnakes coiling on sun-warmed rocks.
The majority of snakes are generally not hostile toward people and would rather avoid contact, despite their popular belief.
However, when visiting West Virginia’s most snake-infested lakes, it is crucial to understand how to deal with them and prevent any needless confrontations.
Bluestone Lake
Due to a dam constructed across the New River to regulate flooding, Bluestone Lake, which spans more than 2,000 acres, is the third-largest lake in West Virginia.
Numerous tourists looking for water-based recreation are drawn to it. Northern water snakes and garter snakes are common species that are frequently seen hunting small animals near the lakeside.
The timber rattlesnake and copperhead, two of West Virginia’s venomous snake species, are also found in the area.
Although they don’t usually act aggressively, they won’t hesitate to attack if you get too closely. Keeping your distance and letting them go away is the best course of action when you run into them.
Tygart Lake
Tygart Lake, which is surrounded by the picturesque Allegheny Mountains, offers a calm setting for a relaxed getaway.
It is a 1,750-acre area with a 10-mile shoreline that is a part of Tygart Lake State Park. Naturally, visitors swarm the lake for a variety of leisure pursuits, particularly during the summer.
Most of the slithery critters, such as the milk snake, corn snake, and black rat snake, are native species, and visitors frequently report running across them.
Fortunately, they are harmless and not poisonous. However, as they are vital to maintaining the equilibrium of the local ecology, this does not give you a right to attack or injure them.
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Burnsville Lake
Burnsville Lake, one of the biggest lakes in the central part of the state, serves as both a busy leisure area and a flood control reservoir.
Camping, swimming, shooting, picnics, and other leisure activities draw enthusiasts from all around West Virginia. The lake’s respectable walleye, bluegill, and catfish populations make it a well-liked fishing location.
In the expansive Burnsville Lake Wildlife Management Area, these, along with small birds and mammals, provide food for a large number of snakes, particularly the eastern hognose snake and northern water snakes.
Although they might not be dangerous, tourists should be cautious around timber rattlesnakes and venomous copperheads.
The latter is particularly misinterpreted, and the public unfairly persecutes it. It will warn you by rattling its tail before attacking, which is your cue to retreat.
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Stonewall Jackson Lake
This 2,630-acre reservoir in Lewis County, which was formed by an impoundment on the West Fork River, is a popular place for boating and fishing.
Numerous fish species, such as walleye, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and black bass, can be found there. In addition, the lake is continuously stocked by the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources to support recreational activities.
The 82-mile lakeshore is surrounded by a dense wilderness region that makes for a great snake habitat, with northern water snakes along the coasts and eastern rat snakes lurking among the trash.
The eastern garter snake is one of the non-venomous snakes found in the region. The two deadly West Virginia species are infrequently seen, and the majority of species are comparatively safe for humans.
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Cheat Lake
In order to generate energy, the Allegheny Power System constructed Cheat Lake Reservoir in 1925. Approximately 10 miles from Morgantown’s downtown, the 1,730-acre lake is a popular recreational destination.
Many sightings and encounters with different species, particularly the timber rattlesnake, have been reported by visitors.
Because of their “venomous” reputation, these snakes arouse dread whether they are swimming in the water or hiding in the tall grass near the coast.
They are sluggish to act aggressively, though, and are generally harmless animals.
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