5 Most Snake-Filled Bodies Of Water In North Carolina
Set along the Atlantic Ocean in the Southeastern United States, North Carolina is a state defined by diverse landscapes. From the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic coastal plains, the Tar Heel State abounds with different types of outdoor landmarks and natural habitats. Each unique environment provides a breeding ground and home to different animal species, from the red wolf to the American alligator. Among the many species, some dangerous and some not, snakes are one group that stands out as a fear for many. With a total of 37 species of snakes in the state, out of which six are venomous, it is fair to want to avoid these slithering reptiles.
While they are present throughout the state, bodies of water are major hotspots, providing hiding spots and abundant wildlife for food. This article delves into the five most snake-filled bodies of water in North Carolina so you know where to be wary. Whether it is the harmless northern water snake or the venomous timber rattlesnake, you’ll know which ones to look out for.
Lake Norman
Located in southwest North Carolina near Charlotte, Lake Norman is an artificial freshwater lake full of opportunities. The body of water has a surface area of 32,500 acres with 520 miles (840 km) of shoreline ready to explore. People can take advantage of the Lake Norman State Park along the coast, which has over 30 campsites with picnic tables and tent pads, as well as multiple hiking and biking trails. For those who want to enter the water, boating, water skiing, and swimming are popular ways to pass the time. Apart from humans, animal life also abounds here, and white-tailed deer, rabbits, and Canada geese are familiar sights.
Along with mammals and birds, reptiles, specifically snakes, also thrive in Lake Norman. The northern water snake (Nerodia sipedon) and eastern rat snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) are ones that you are likely to spot, as they prefer the shallow coastal area and abundant forests nearby. The northern water snake, also known as the common water snake, is one of the most proficient swimmers in the Serpentes suborder, able to travel long distances and submerge to hunt for fish underwater. Adults can grow up to 4 feet 5 inches (135 cm) and boast a dark brown to black coloration with darker crossbands. Due to their coloration, these snakes are often mistaken for cottonmouths, a highly venomous snake. Thankfully, northern water snakes and eastern rat snakes are harmless, and a bite will only cause minor pain. That said, keep an eye out for snake-like silhouettes in the water and give them a wide berth when boating so you don’t injure them.
Jordan Lake
Also home to the northern water snake and the eastern rat snake, Jordan Lake is a snake-filled body of water in North Carolina. It is located near the city of Raleigh, and these two species of non-venomous snakes are plentiful in and around the water. Apart from the water snake, an adept swimmer, the eastern rat snake is also competent in the water and can glide through the lake and go underwater to hunt. In terms of appearance, eastern rat snakes vary, with some bringing black and white near the chin, while others are gray with dark bands running along their length. Ranging from 3 to 6 feet (91 to 182 cm) long, these snakes prefer to hide in forests and wetlands, so you should keep an eye out for them when hiking near Jordan Lake.
Apart from the minor caution for snakes, Jordan Lake is an excellent place for some outdoor recreation. The reservoir spans 14,000 acres with a shore length of 180 miles (290 km), perfect for some waterfront fun. Swimming and boating are among the most popular activities, and people often head out to ride the pristine waters. However, the lake has also seen many issues, like a lack of water quality, which prompted drives like one in 2009 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to clean it. This was also done to help promote and save bald eagle habitats in the region, and the cleanup has been a success as of 2017.
Black River
Unlike the previous two names, Black River is a river, and not a lake. Located in southeastern North Carolina, this 50-mile (80 km) long river is a tributary of the Cape Fear River, and cuts through many rich ecosystems. For example, it is the only place in the world where bald cypress trees have existed for over 1,000 years, and it is also home to the rare Santee chub fish species. In terms of human presence, the river is a popular place for kayaking and canoeing, and wildlife enthusiasts often spend time boating to spot the many species here.
Among these species are the plain-bellied water snake (Nerodia erythrogaster) and the cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus). The latter, also known as the water moccasin, is one you should watch out for if near the river. This venomous pit viper is one of the deadliest snakes in the United States and also one of the few semiaquatic vipers on the planet. As the name suggests, it has a white, cotton-like mouth when opened, indicating a potent bite. With cytotoxic venom, a bite can lead to swelling, necrosis, and, in rare cases, be fatal. Moreover, averaging between 26 and 35 inches (65 and 90 cm) with a dark brown or black coloration and darker crossbands, they can be quite hard to spot. Thankfully, they are easier to identify in the water as these snakes swim with a unique method in which their entire body floats above the surface. Apart from cottonmouths, some forested areas near the river also house North American racers (Coluber constrictor) and copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix), so it's best to stick to well-trafficked areas.
Lake Waccamaw
The only natural lake on this list, Lake Waccamaw, is an abode of wildlife and scenery. Likely formed by the thawing of permafrost around 20,000 years ago, this lake is now one of the largest in the region, with an area of nearly 9,000 acres. Its shoreline is only 14 miles (23 km) long, but abounds with swamplands, sandy shallows, limestone bluffs, and verdant forests. To this end, all sorts of activities are possible, especially in the adjacent Lake Waccamaw State Park. Here, people can hike the diverse shoreline, cast a line along the coast, or even head out for some paddling in the quaint waters. Those looking for a more immersive experience can also set up camp along the lake.
While camping is a serene experience, it's essential to know about the snakes in Lake Waccamaw so they don’t catch you off guard during your night under the stars. This is especially important as the area is a known habitat for the cottonmouth, a venomous species best avoided. Apart from the cottonmouth, eastern rat snakes and eastern garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are also commonplace in and around this body of water. The eastern garter is one found in most parts of the Atlantic Coast, known for its ability to live in various environments. It is able to thrive near bodies of water, and the average male will reach around 26 inches (66 cm) in length. While not venomous, eastern garters have a unique organ known as the Duvernoy’s gland, which secretes a substance that causes hemorrhaging in rodents. While mostly harmless to humans, it can cause non-allergic symptoms in rare cases.
Cullasaja River
In western North Carolina, the Cullasaja River flows for around 20 miles (32 km) from Lake Sequoyah’s spillway to the Little Tennessee River. It drops hundreds of feet along its course through the Cullasaja Gorge, a stretch known for its rugged beauty. The gorge is home to three waterfalls, including Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, making this one of the most striking scenic areas in the Southern Blue Ridge.
Wildlife thrives along the river and its banks, with snakes being prevalent. Northern watersnakes and eastern garter snakes are frequently seen near the water, while eastern rat snakes often patrol the forests nearby. Black racers are quick to dart away if disturbed, and more cautiously, visitors should be aware that both timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) and copperheads inhabit the gorge. Their camouflage allows them to blend easily into rocks and leaf litter, making careful footing important when exploring this wild stretch of North Carolina.
Watch For Snakes In These Bodies Of Water In North Carolina
North Carolina’s lakes and rivers are as beautiful as they are wild, but they also come with their share of slithering residents. From the harmless northern water snake gliding through Lake Norman to the cottonmouth lurking in the swamps of the Black River, each body of water has its own cast of reptiles. Lake Waccamaw and Jordan Lake add to the list with garters and rat snakes, while the Cullasaja River’s gorge hides timber rattlers and copperheads. Exploring these places is rewarding, but awareness is key to keeping your adventure safe.
