McKinney Falls State Park in Austin, Texas, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. While the park is known for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, it is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including a variety of snake species. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the types of snakes found in McKinney Falls State Park, explore the presence of venomous snakes, and discuss the prevalence of water snakes in the area.
Types of Snakes Found in McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park is home to several species of snakes, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors. Some of the most commonly observed snakes in the park include:
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Diamond-backed Watersnake (Nerodia rhombifer): This medium to large snake is known for its heavily keeled scales and is often found near water sources, such as Onion Creek and the park’s waterfalls.
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Western Ribbon Snake: A non-venomous snake that is commonly spotted in the park, the Western Ribbon Snake is a slender, fast-moving species.
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Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake: One of the four venomous snake species found in the Austin area, the Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake can be identified by its distinctive rattle when threatened.
Venomous Snakes in McKinney Falls State Park
While the majority of snakes found in McKinney Falls State Park are non-venomous, there is one species that is considered venomous: the Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake. This snake is one of the four venomous snakes commonly found in the Austin area, and visitors to the park should be aware of its presence and take appropriate precautions.
It’s important to note that the Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake is generally not aggressive and will only strike in self-defense. However, it’s still crucial for park visitors to be cautious and to avoid approaching or handling any snakes they encounter.
Water Snakes in McKinney Falls State Park
Due to the presence of water sources like Onion Creek and the park’s waterfalls, water snakes are a common sight in McKinney Falls State Park. The Diamond-backed Watersnake is one of the most frequently observed water snake species in the area.
These snakes are non-venomous and play an important role in the park’s ecosystem, helping to control populations of small aquatic creatures. While they may appear intimidating, water snakes are generally not aggressive and will only strike if they feel threatened.
Events and Activities
For those interested in learning more about the snakes of McKinney Falls State Park, the park often hosts guided herping events led by experts from the SW TX Snake ID group. These events provide an opportunity for visitors to observe and identify the various snake species found in the park, as well as learn about their behaviors and habitats.
Park Information
- Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
- Phone Number: (512) 243-1643
- Admission: Adults: $6; Kids 12 and under: Free
- Activities: Hiking, walking, and herping events
Conclusion
McKinney Falls State Park is a natural wonder that offers visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors and observe the diverse wildlife that calls the park home. While snakes may be a concern for some, it’s important to remember that they play a vital role in the park’s ecosystem and are generally not aggressive unless provoked.
By understanding the types of snakes found in the park, the presence of venomous species, and the prevalence of water snakes, visitors can enjoy their time at McKinney Falls State Park while respecting the delicate balance of the natural environment.
References
- https://www.reddit.com/r/whatsthissnake/comments/mqe22l/what_do_we_have_here_austin_tx_mckinney_falls/
- https://inaturalist.ala.org.au/lists/4410946
- https://www.fox7austin.com/news/snake-season-austin-park-rangers-identify-which-snakes-are-venomous
- https://naturerocksaustin.org/activity/herping-mckinney-falls