Georgia, located in the southeastern U.S., is rich in forests, covering about 40% of the state. This makes it a great place for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. Among the many animals living in Georgia, snakes are a common sight. While most of the 50 snake species found in the state are harmless, about seven are venomous. Many of these snakes live in lakes, including the eastern copperhead. Here are some of Georgia’s most snake-infested lakes to be aware of before taking a swim.
Lake Lanier
Created in 1956 by damming the Chattahoochee River, Lake Lanier spans 37,000 acres and serves as a wildlife habitat. It is home to various snake species, including the black rat snake, which can grow up to six feet long. Though large and often found swimming, it is non-venomous and usually harmless. Another common species in this lake is DeKay’s brown snake, a small and non-venomous reptile.
Lake Hartwell
As one of the largest lakes in Georgia, Lake Hartwell is also known for its high snake population. It hosts both venomous and non-venomous species. Among the harmless ones are the common water snake, rat snake, and garter snake, which tend to avoid humans. However, the lake is also home to venomous snakes like the timber rattlesnake and the eastern copperhead, which is easily recognized by its brown color and hourglass-shaped markings.
Lake Sinclair
Covering nearly 15,000 acres, Lake Sinclair is managed by Georgia Power and features a 417-mile shoreline with many streams and inlets. The lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating, but it also provides a habitat for snakes. One of the most common is the non-venomous common watersnake, which can grow over four feet long. These snakes are easy to spot due to their dark bands and brownish color.
Lake Allatoona
Known for its natural beauty, Lake Allatoona is also one of Georgia’s most snake-infested lakes. It is home to various species, including DeKay’s brown snake, the eastern hognose snake, eastern garter snake, gray rat snake, and ring-neck snake. While most of these are harmless, the eastern hognose and eastern garter snakes have mild venom. Fortunately, these snakes are easy to identify—the garter snake has a light-colored stripe along its body, while the hognose snake has a distinctive brown pattern. If you spot these snakes, it’s best to keep your distance.
If you plan to visit these lakes, stay alert and be cautious of snakes, especially the venomous ones.
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