These Are The 5 Most Snake-Filled Bodies Of Water In NJ

NEW JERSEY — New Jersey is home to many different species of snakes, but what residents may not know is which bodies of water in the Garden State contain the greatest numbers of these often-feared reptiles.

An analysis by geography website WorldAtlas identified what they claim are the five most snake-filled bodies of water in New Jersey.

While this may make you think twice about wading or taking a dip in some of these lakes and rivers, take solace in knowing New Jersey is home to only two species of venomous snakes, the eastern timber rattlesnake and the northern copperhead, both of which are primarily found in the state's wooded and rural areas.

These are the five most snake-filled bodies of water in New Jersey, according to WorldAtlas:

Merrill Creek Reservoir

Merrill Creek Reservoir is located in Harmony Township in central Warren County. The reservoir is a 650-acre artificial lake designed to hold 15 billion gallons of water and is surrounded by 290 acres of protected woodland and fields.

According to WorldAtlas, "Northern water snakes are commonly spotted along the rocky edges in the area, especially during warm months when they bask in the open after their long winter hibernation. You may also spot Rough green snakes and eastern milk snakes."

Manasquan Reservoir

The Manasquan Reservoir is located in Howell Township in Monmouth County. The reservoir is a 770-acre artificial lake is a key component of Monmouth County's water supply, providing water to municipalities and utilities.

According to WorldAtlas, "The extensive wetlands, coves, and flora-covered banks support a robust population of northern water snakes, especially near the fishing and wildlife observation areas that people frequent. Furthermore, the park’s over 5-mile perimeter trail offers multiple points of contact with these reptiles, particularly near the marshy inlets and boardwalk sections."

Parvin Lake

Located less than five miles from Vineland, Parvin Lake is located within Parvin State Park. The lake is a popular place for New Jerseyans to enjoy swimming, fishing and boating.

According to WorldAtlas, "The mix of still water, abundant vegetation, and nearby marshes also attracts ribbon snakes and eastern garter snakes, both of which thrive in this wetland-heavy habitat."

Lake Hopatcong

At about 2,500 acres, Lake Hopatcong is the largest freshwater body in New Jersey. Located 30 miles from the Delaware River, the lake forms part of the border between Sussex and Morris counties in the state's northern highlands region.

According to WorldAtlas, "With very favorable conditions for northern water snakes, which are frequently observed by boaters, cottage owners, and shoreline anglers, swimmers encounter the local populations probably more than anyone else."

Mullica River

The Mullica River is a 50.6-mile-long river in South Jersey that runs through the heart of the Pine Barrens before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean.

According to WorldAtlas, "(The river's) slow-moving current, tidal marshes, and densely wooded banks make way for habitat for several snake species, including eastern king snakes, ribbon snakes, corn snakes, black racers, and, of course, northern water snakes."

Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story said that New Jersey has one species of venomous snake. The state has two. Patch apologizes for the error.