What to Do if You See a Snake While Swimming in a Lake?
If you encounter a snake while swimming in a lake, the most crucial action is to remain calm and slowly create distance. Regardless of the snake's species or whether it appears venomous, it's essential to understand that all snakes can bite, and the best course of action is always to leave them undisturbed.
Immediate Actions to Take
When a snake is spotted in the water, your primary goal is to ensure both your safety and the snake's. Panicking can lead to unpredictable movements, which might be perceived as a threat by the snake.- Stay Calm and Assess: Take a deep breath. Snakes are generally not aggressive unless provoked or cornered. Most water snakes are more interested in finding food or basking than interacting with humans.
- Maintain Distance: Slowly and calmly swim away from the snake. Give it ample space to move freely. Avoid sudden splashing or quick movements that could startle it.
- Do Not Approach or Harass: Never attempt to catch, touch, or harm the snake. This is when bites are most likely to occur. Remember, leaving snakes alone is the safest approach, whether they are in the water or on land.
- Do Not Attempt Identification: While you might be curious, trying to identify the snake's species (venomous vs. non-venomous) while in the water is risky and unnecessary. The recommended action remains the same: give it space.
Understanding Water Snakes
Lakes are natural habitats for various snake species. Some common water snakes in North America, for instance, are non-venomous, like the common water snake (_Nerodia sipedon_), while others, such as the cottonmouth (water moccasin, _Agkistrodon piscivorus_), are venomous. Snakes enter the water to hunt for fish, amphibians, or simply to travel between locations.| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Remain Calm | Avoid panic to prevent sudden movements. |
| Create Space | Slowly and smoothly swim away from the snake. |
| Observe Safely | If curious, watch from a safe distance without disturbing. |
| Exit Water | Consider exiting the water if the snake remains close or you feel uncomfortable. |
Preventative Measures and General Safety
Being aware of your surroundings can help minimize unexpected encounters with wildlife, including snakes.- Be Mindful of Habitat: When swimming in lakes, especially in areas with dense vegetation, reeds, or rocky shores, understand that these are prime habitats for snakes.
- Enter Water Slowly: Avoid diving or jumping into murky waters where you can't see what's below the surface.
- Educate Yourself: Learn about common snake species in your local area, not for identification during an encounter, but for general awareness of what wildlife lives there.
- Supervise Children and Pets: Ensure children and pets are educated about not approaching or provoking any wildlife, including snakes.
After the Encounter
Once you've safely distanced yourself from the snake and potentially exited the water, consider the following:- Inform Others (if necessary): If you are part of a group, discreetly inform them about the snake's presence and direction of travel so they can also avoid it.
- Report if Unusual: If you observe a snake behaving aggressively without provocation, or if it appears injured or trapped, you can contact local wildlife authorities or park rangers. Do not attempt to intervene yourself.
By maintaining a calm demeanor, giving the snake space, and respecting its natural habitat, you can ensure a safe and peaceful experience for both you and the snake.
