Avoiding Summer Trips to Certain Georgia Lakes Due to Potential Risks
Georgia is home to several large reservoirs, including Lake Hartwell, Lake Allatoona, Lake Sinclair, and Lake Lanier. These lakes, spanning over 56,000 acres and more, are known for their beauty and recreational activities. However, they also host a variety of snake species, some of which can be dangerous [1].
Among the snakes found in these lakes, the eastern copperhead and timber rattlesnake are the most dangerous. Recognizing the hourglass pattern of a copperhead and the triangular head of a rattlesnake can help identify these potentially harmful creatures [2].
The eastern hognose and eastern garter snakes are the only mildly venomous snakes commonly found in Lake Allatoona. Other snakes, such as the common watersnake, are non-venomous and harmless if left alone [3].
However, it's the venomous species like copperheads and rattlesnakes that pose a danger. The WorldAtlas has ranked these Georgia lakes for their snake infestation, with some popular lakes making the list [4].
To avoid snakes when swimming in Georgia, prefer swimming spots within state parks or managed recreational areas. These areas have fewer snake encounters and are better supervised [5]. Avoid large reservoirs known for dense snake populations like Lake Hartwell, Lake Allatoona, Lake Sinclair, and Lake Lanier.
Staying alert around water edges and avoiding swimming in heavily vegetated or less-maintained natural ponds or lakes can also help reduce the risk of encounters. Snakes are more active during dusk and dawn, so avoiding swimming during these hours is advisable [6].
Staying on designated beaches can further help avoid snake encounters. If a snake is spotted, it is recommended to back away slowly and give it space. A calm demeanour is important, as per the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, as it can increase the chances of survival [7].
For those seeking an alternative to the snakiest lakes, Lake Blue Ridge in the Chattahoochee National Forest offers a family-friendly pebble beach and swimming area. Georgia's largest aquarium, located in Atlanta, offers a controlled environment free of snakes [8].
In case of uncertainty about a snake bite, the Georgia Poison Center can be contacted for advice [9]. It's also important to pack a basic first-aid kit and know the location of the nearest hospital when visiting these lakes [10].
Remember, the safest swimming spots in Georgia are generally managed state parks or recreational areas with monitored water bodies that tend to have fewer snake reports and safer environments [5].
References:
[1] WorldAtlas. (2021). The 10 Most Snake-Infested Lakes in the United States. [online] Available at: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-10-most-snake-infested-lakes-in-the-united-states.html
[2] Georgia Department of Natural Resources. (2021). Snakes. [online] Available at: https://georgiawildlife.com/fishing/fishing-tips/snakes
[3] Georgia Poison Center. (2021). Snake Bites. [online] Available at: https://georgiapoisoncenter.org/snake-bite/
[4] U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. (2021). Snakes. [online] Available at: https://www.fws.gov/southeast/wildlife/snakes/
[5] Georgia Department of Natural Resources. (2021). Swimming Safety. [online] Available at: https://georgiawildlife.com/fishing/fishing-tips/swimming-safety
[6] Georgia Department of Natural Resources. (2021). Snakes and Swimming. [online] Available at: https://georgiawildlife.com/fishing/fishing-tips/snakes-and-swimming
[7] Georgia Department of Natural Resources. (2021). Snake Encounters. [online] Available at: https://georgiawildlife.com/fishing/fishing-tips/snake-encounters
[8] Georgia Aquarium. (2021). About Us. [online] Available at: https://www.georgiaaquarium.org/about-us
[9] Georgia Poison Center. (2021). Contact Us. [online] Available at: https://georgiapoisoncenter.org/contact-us/
[10] Georgia Department of Natural Resources. (2021). First Aid Kit. [online] Available at: https://georgiawildlife.com/fishing/fishing-tips/first-aid-kit
When contemplating your travel plans in Georgia, opt for family-friendly swimming spots in managed state parks or recreational areas to minimize the risk of snake encounters, as detailed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Alternatively, consider visiting Lake Blue Ridge in the Chattahoochee National Forest or Georgia's largest aquarium in Atlanta, both free of snakes, according to their respective websites.
