Illinois Lake Packed With Over 11,000 Acres of Snakes

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One of Illinois' largest and most popular lakes, Lake Shelbyville, is also known for being home to a massive population of snakes, including the venomous Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. While the lake offers many recreational activities, visitors need to be aware of the high concentration of snakes, both harmless and dangerous, that inhabit the 11,000-acre body of water.

Why it matters

The high density of snakes, including a venomous rattlesnake species, at Lake Shelbyville raises safety concerns for the many people who visit the popular lake for swimming, boating, and other water activities. Awareness of the snake population is crucial for visitors to take proper precautions.

The details

Lake Shelbyville is home to large populations of eastern garter snakes and northern water snakes, which are relatively harmless to humans. However, the lake also has a significant presence of the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, a venomous species that can deliver a dangerous bite if provoked. While fatal rattlesnake bites are rare, the venom can cause serious harm, so visitors need to be cautious around the snakes.

• Lake Shelbyville is a popular destination for water activities during the warmer months in Illinois.
• The snake population at the lake is most active as the weather warms up in the spring and summer.

What’s next

As the weather warms up, officials at Lake Shelbyville will likely issue reminders to visitors about the presence of venomous and non-venomous snakes in the area and advise them to take proper precautions.