Montana’s snake-infested lakes are the subject of numerous tales. Stories of the swarms of serpents that lurk just beyond the safety of the shore have been told over campfires.
Those who believe some of the stories tell them as warnings. Others instill fear for their own amusement or to protect kids from the water.
However, the quantity of water snakes in Montana is relatively modest. Two of the most prevalent snakes in the state are the plains garter snake and the western terrestrial garter snake.
Since neither of these is really violent, a lot of snake infestation reports might be fabricated or overstated.
Nelson Reservoir
In 1914, the Milk River was dammed to create the Nelson Reservoir, one of Montana’s hidden gems.
Today, outdoor enthusiasts looking for a chance to fish in the summer and ice fish in the winter find refuge in this 4,100-acre body of water.
Regarding snakes, the Nelson Reservoir area has been known to host the prairie rattlesnake. Although these animals are typically found in arid climates, their use of water for transportation has produced issues for swimmers and boaters around the Nelson Reservoir.
Raccoons have been known to infiltrate boats carrying fisherman. Those tales are uncommon, though.
The majority of the snakes in and around Nelson Reservoir are garter snakes, which are prone to scuttling away from people when they get too close.
Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake, formerly a component of the ancient Glacial Lake Missoula, is located in the northwest region of Montana.
It is currently western Montana’s largest natural freshwater body and has produced energy since 1930 thanks to a hydroelectric project.
The lake is home to a variety of fauna because it is surrounded by nature on two sides. Some of those species are snakes, with the northern rubber boa and common garter snake being the most prevalent.
Even though few of these species are considered to be very violent snakes, there may be additional threats in the area. The prairie rattlesnake, for instance, is found on the nearby Flathead Indian Reservation.
This snake can be identified by its dark brown spots and noticeable brown coloring. Its venom is both hemotoxic and neurotoxic, and it can grow up to 5 feet (102 cm) in length.
Whitefish Lake
Like many lakes in Montana, Whitefish Lake is home to the western terrestrial garter snake. This colorful snake, which may grow up to 41 inches (104 cm) in length, has dorsal stripes that are yellow, orange, and white.
Although it is rarely severe, their moderately poisonous saliva can cause mild pain and edema in humans who are bitten.
Black racers are also common in the area; they are not harmful per such, but as a defensive tactic, they will conduct a brief chase, which can be frightening if you are the target.
Keep an eye out for prairie rattlesnakes, which are also common in the area.
Fort Peck Lake
Due to the area’s severe floods, Fort Peck Dam was constructed in the 1940s. As a result, there were numerous delays in the Missouri River Valley’s growth.
As a result, Fort Peck Lake was created as a reservoir to facilitate more traffic in the region. With a surface size of around 250,000 acres, it is currently the fifth-largest artificial lake in the United States when full.
In addition to the black racer, prairie rattlesnake, and garter snake, there are a few other snake species in and near Fort Peck Lake.
There are many hog-nosed snakes in the region, which are distinguished by their upturned noses, which enable them to dig in mud or sand. Despite their lack of aggression, their bites can be toxic.
One of the most placid species, the northern rubber boa, might possibly be present.
To Conclude
Montana might be the best place for you to be if you enjoy the outdoors but are afraid of snakes.
Only the prairie rattlesnake is a real concern, even if other snake species may be found in some places.
When hiking or camping, keep a snakebite kit on hand.
If you are bitten, get medical help right away. But you could spend days outside and travel miles without coming across a snake.