While Maryland’s picturesque lakes offer recreation and beauty, some are more than just peaceful.
The ignorant might want to learn about the thriving snake populations that call them home.
Even though the majority of species are not poisonous, lake visitors may become uneasy if they come across these menacing reptiles slithering down shoreline or hiding in bushes near the water.
Although the Old Line State is home to a variety of aquatic environments, some waterways have gained a bad reputation as being ideal snake habitats.
Centennial Lake
The vast Centennial Park encircles the 54-acre reservoir known as Centennial Lake in Howard County. Numerous tourists come to the area to partake in water sports and other leisure pursuits.
A variety of species, including a profusion of small prey for snakes to feed on, find the perfect home in this expansive freshwater ecosystem.
Often seen in the region, northern water snakes are distinguished by their massive bodies and elastic ligaments, which allow them to ingest larger prey.
The eastern worm snake, a little snake with smooth, glossy brown skin, is another local dweller.
Tourists should use caution when exploring regions along the lake coastline or hiking paths, even though the majority of species are non-venomous and pose little threat to humans.
Snakes may come closer to protect their territory, resulting in unintentional interactions.
Deep Creek Lake
One of Garrett County’s most visited destinations is Deep Creek Lake, the biggest freshwater lake in Maryland and a center for recreation.
The lake provides the perfect environment for a wide variety of tiny animals, birds, and amphibians, all of which are plentiful prey for the region’s flourishing snake population.
Additionally, animals like the northern water snake, which can reach a maximum length of five feet and has dark crossbands down its neck and a brown to reddish tint, thrive in the warm and humid climate.
The majority of snake species, including the northern water snake, are fortunately non-venomous and rarely threaten people.
However, visitors should be cautious of the Maryland native timber rattlesnake, which may kill a human with its deadly bite. It is characterized by a diamond-shaped body and is short but robust.
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Lake Elkhorn
The third largest lake in Columbia, Lake Elkhorn, is located in Howard County and spans 37 acres. It is a well-liked location for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Snakes can find plenty of food in the lake’s verdant surrounds, which provide the perfect environment for a flourishing wildlife population.
The eastern garter snake, a medium-sized snake with a variety of colors and a white stripe along the back, is a common species in the woodlands and marsh areas surrounding the lake.
Although the copperhead, a dangerous member in the pit viper family with sharp fangs, has been sighted by certain travelers, the garter snake is not.
When foraging in dense undergrowth or close to the sea, one may unintentionally come into contact with snakes. Although they are not usually hostile, copperheads may become defensive if they feel threatened.
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Lake Needwood
Lake Needwood, a 75-acre reservoir in Montgomery County that was created by building a dam over Rock Creek, is one of the most snake-infested lakes in Maryland.
The various snakes that live in the marsh are treated to a full-course meal when tiny mammals, reptiles, and amphibians are included.
The Eastern milksnake, a little, pretty snake with red spots on glossy scales, is one of the main species. This constrictor snake is fortunately nonvenomous.
Many recreational enthusiasts who like to engage in water sports, including as swimming, boating, and kayaking, are drawn to Lake Needwood.
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Lake Artemesia
Part of the Lake Artemesia Natural Area, this 38-acre artificial lake is located in Prince George’s County.
Tourists frequently encounter snakes surrounding Lake Artemesia because of the abundance of fish, birds, and amphibians in the area, which provide them with enough food to thrive.
These can include the Eastern hognose snake, which has a robust body, a wide range of colors, and a noticeable upturned snout, and the Eastern rat snake, which is identified by its shiny black body with a white chin.
Although neither of these snakes is poisonous, the latter may act aggressively to protect its range.
They have a significant impact in controlling rodent populations. Safe coexistence between humans and snakes around the lake is facilitated by respecting snake space.
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