Northern Snakehead Facts

 

Northern Snakehead

The northern snakehead is an invasive species of fish that has become established in parts of the USA. Once introduced into a watershed, these aggressive predators can spread quickly.

Northern Snakehead Facts

• The northern snakehead is Native to China, Russia, and Korea.
• Snakeheads often multiply quickly and grow rapidly in new environments.
• Hotspots in the USA include the Chesapeake Bay, New York, Pennsylvania, and Arkansas.
• Northern snakeheads often reach lengths of 30 inches or more and weigh in excess of 10 pounds.
• Northern snakeheads have 2 rows of sharp teeth; they can inflict painful wounds.
• Snakeheads have a coating of thick, foul-smelling slime.
• Northern snakeheads breed during the summer and may reproduce multiple times.
• Eggs are laid in a nest made of vegetation.
• Spawning pairs aggressively defend eggs and young.
• Adult snakeheads eat mainly minnows and other small fish.
• Large individuals also prey on adult fish and other wildlife. 
• The explosion of northern snakehead populations has led to entirely new sport fisheries.
• In some areas, snakeheads are taken by bowfishing or other alternative fishing methods.

Related Information

Pennsylvania Northern Snakeheads