Snake sightings are increasing at New York lakes—here's why and their major hotspots

Time of India

29-05-2025

Source: World Atlas
New York lakes have traditionally been the epitome of picturesque summer vacations—featuring swimming, boating, and hiking amidst the midst of nature. However, with warming weather and changing ecosystems, these serene havens are going through a subtle makeover.
Increasingly, reports confirm a marked rise in snake activity near some of the state's most frequented lakes. From the innocuous garter snake to the perhaps perilous timber rattlesnake, the lakes are no longer as peaceful—or innocent—as they had appeared.
Why
snake sightings are rising
in New York lakes
Historically, snakes were always a feature of New York's wildlife, but their prominence and numbers along bodies of water are unprecedented today. Increasing numbers of swimmers, hikers, and fishers are encountering snakes on trails, in campsites underfoot, or even crawling into the shallows.
A number of ecological factors are behind this increase:
Climate change:
Higher temperatures have lengthened the active seasons for snakes, causing them to breed earlier and colonize areas previously unsuitable.
Habitat expansion:
The reopening of forests, wetlands, and protected corridors has provided new migration routes and habitats.
Rich food supply: Frogs, fish, and rodents cluster along lakes, attracting both aquatic and terrestrial snakes to the same locations.
These changes have increased encounters—and dangers—for unsuspecting travellers.
Major hotspots of
snake sightings in New York lakes
Though snakes can theoretically be seen anywhere in the state, six lakes have become hotspots for increasing sightings and cause for concern.
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Echo Lake (Catskills)
A small 13-acre lake nestled in the Catskill Mountains, Echo Lake is now famous for water snakes and timber rattlesnakes. The rocky outcroppings and deep forest margins surrounding the lake offer perfect basking and hunting locations. Its dense fish and amphibian base functions like a smorgasbord for semi-aquatic snakes. Hikers on Overlook Mountain frequently sight them, particularly on warm, sunny afternoons.
Lake Champlain
Bordering New York and Vermont, Lake Champlain is among the state's deepest and largest lakes—and becoming more of a rattlesnake haven. The area around Split Rock Mountain is a confirmed migration route for timber rattlesnakes, so encounters are more probable. Protected corridors such as the Split Rock Wildway have assisted in building populations.
Lake Erie
The waters off the New York shore of Lake Erie are home to a postulated 12,000 Lake Erie watersnakes—a non-poisonous but very active species.
They are fast swimming and adept at stalking; they have learned to coexist with people easily. Local tradition has long told stories of giant snakes in the lake; though those are not true, the snakes that exist today are very much so.
Oneida Lake
This is New York State's largest lake that lies wholly within the state, and it's becoming increasingly common to spot the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, a federally threatened and poisonous species.
These snakes are shy but lethal, tending to inhabit soggy areas along the water's edge. Because they are nearly invisible, with cryptic coloring and a silent demeanor, they are easy to overlook—until too late.
Canopus Lake (Putnam County)
Situated in Clarence Fahnestock State Park, this artificial lake is slowly becoming an ideal spot for the northern watersnake and black rat snake. The brush-covered shores and remote nature trails supply concealment for snakes who, basking on rocks or down logs, may be unknowingly approached by visitors.
Lake George
Though famous as a vacation spot, Lake George today has over a dozen species of snakes that call it home, including timber rattlesnakes. Sightings are especially common along hiking trails that encircle the lake. Heavy usage and growing snake populations increase the chances of accidental encounters.
What you need to know about
snakebite risks
in New York
Of New York's 17 native snake species, three are venomous:
Timber rattlesnake
Eastern massasauga rattlesnake
Northern copperhead
Most snakes you'll see are harmless, like garter snakes or rat snakes.
However, venomous bites—though rare—can be medically significant. On average, about seven venomous snakebite cases are reported each year across the state. These typically occur when snakes are stepped on, provoked, or accidentally cornered.
Why are
snakes attracted to lakes
There are a number of reasons why snakes are being found more and more around lakes:
Plentiful food
Lakes are biologically diverse environments that harbor frogs, small fish, and rodents—favorable food for most species of snakes.
Semi-aquatic species such as the northern watersnake are specially drawn to this habitat.
Shelter and sun
Snakes are ectothermic (cold-blooded) and thus depend on outside sources of heat. Lakeshores provide sunbaked rocks, downed logs, and brush—convenient for thermoregulation and protection from predators.
Migration and breeding routes
Natural corridors such as the Split Rock Wildway along Lake Champlain allow snakes to move between breeding and feeding grounds safely.
These corridors inadvertently lead snake populations to human-dense areas.
Habitat expansion from climate change
Warmer winters and longer summers have allowed numerous snake species to push northward in range. Lakes that had little reptile life are now hotspots for breeding.
Other
wildlife posing lakes
as more dangers
Snakes are not the only wildlife encroaching on New York's lakeside areas:
Black bears and even moose have been seen in lakes such as Lake George, especially in the early morning or evening.
Muskellunge—large, powerful ambush predatory fish—have also made swimmers jump. They grow 4–5 feet long and use explosive ambush attacks to attack.
Beavers and snapping turtles are found in quieter coves and marshes, adding more dangers for unsuspecting swimmers or boaters.
Precautions to take in
snake-prone areas
If you do intend to swim in New York's lakes this summer, take these precautions:
When swimming:
Avoid wading through weeds or cloudy shallows where snakes may be hiding.
Wear water shoes to protect yourself from the risk of bites or sharp ground.
Don't swim alone in isolated places where assistance might be distant.
When hiking or camping:
Stay on designated trails.
Don't go through tall grass or rock piles—snakes' favorite hiding places.
Employ a walking stick to strike the ground ahead and warn snakes of your approach.
Shake out sleeping bags, boots, and clothes left on the ground.
If you meet a snake:
Do not get close to it.
Stay motionless or back away slowly.
If bitten, receive immediate medical help—don't try to suck out venom or slice the wound.
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