For lake touring enthusiasts interested in the types of snakes found in Lake Garda, there are several species to be aware of. While there is only one venomous snake in Italy, the common viper, it is not known to range into Lake Garda. However, there are definitely sweet water snakes in Lake Garda.
Snakes Found in Lake Garda
According to the information gathered, there are five types of snakes that can be found in the Lake Garda area:
- Dice Snake
- European Grass Snake (Natrix natrix)
- Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca)
- Aesculapian Snake (Zamenis longissimus)
- Unspecified Venomous Snake
Dice Snake
The dice snake is in the same genus as the viperine snake, but it does not range into Lake Garda. This snake is known to be found in the area surrounding the lake.
European Grass Snake
The European grass snake, also known as the ringed snake, is a completely harmless species that is commonly found in the Lake Garda region. These snakes are non-venomous and play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations.
Smooth Snake
The smooth snake is another non-venomous species that may be present in the Lake Garda area. These small snakes are known to inhabit various habitats, including rocky areas and grasslands, which can be found around the lake.
Aesculapian Snake
The Aesculapian snake is a species that has been reported in the Lake Garda region, although its specific presence in the lake itself is not explicitly mentioned in the sources. This snake is not considered to be venomous and is generally harmless to humans.
Unspecified Venomous Snake
While the sources do not provide the exact species, they do mention that there is one venomous snake that can be found in the Lake Garda area. This is likely the common viper, which is the only venomous snake species native to Italy. However, this snake is not known to range into the lake itself.
Importance of Snakes in the Ecosystem
It is important to note that the presence of snakes should not deter the enjoyment of Lake Garda. Snakes play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations and helping to maintain balance in the food chain. With proper precautions and awareness, encounters with snakes can be safely managed.
Resources for Exploring Lake Garda’s Wildlife
For those interested in learning more about the wildlife of Lake Garda, resources such as iNaturalist UK provide checklists of taxa living in the area, including birds, amphibians, and reptiles. These resources can be valuable for lake touring enthusiasts who want to explore the diverse natural environment of Lake Garda.
References:
– Tripadvisor – Snakes in Lake Garda
– Tripadvisor – Water Snakes in Lake Garda
– Mumsnet – Are There Snakes in Lake Garda?
– Reddit – Snake in Lake Garda, Italy
– iNaturalist UK – Lake Garda Check List
– Snakes.at – Grass Snake
– Snakes.at – Smooth Snake