Have you seen this ‘land-walking’ fish? Kill it
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FLUSHING, Queens (PIX11) – Although carnivorous fish have long been important in aquatic ecosystems, one invasive and aggressive predator has been documented to survive outside its natural environment.
The northern snakehead, a fish originally from Asia, was first spotted in the wild in New York City in 2005. The species was found in Meadow and Willow Lakes near Flushing Meadows Corona Park, as reported by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
DEC officials believe the fish were introduced through aquarium dumping and accidental and intentional releases from fish markets. While steps have been taken to keep the population in Queens contained, the species poses a threat to its natural environment and is known to be able to spread to nearby waterbodies.
Impact
Adult snakeheads consume various species, including fish, crustaceans, reptiles, mammals, and small birds. This causes many native species to struggle for food resources, resulting in potential elimination.
DEC officials claim municipalities that rely on tourist dollars from recreational fishing could suffer major losses if the northern snakeheads spread to other waterways in New York.
How do they spread?
In addition to aquarium dumping and releases from fish markets, DEC officials believe anglers and boaters have illegally used the fish as bait or unknowingly transported juveniles in water-containing compartments of boats, contributing to their spread.
The fish can breathe oxygen and survive for days out of water. Although they cannot actually walk, they can crawl short distances on land.
Appearance
Northern snakeheads can grow to a length of three to four feet. They are generally brown and feature large, irregular blotches along their bodies. A defining characteristic of the snakehead is its single fin that runs the length of its back. Additionally, they have a somewhat flattened head with a large mouth and many canine-like teeth.
Steps you can take
Snakeheads are labeled as injurious wildlife, meaning they cannot be transported. If you catch a snakehead, the DEC advises you to take several photos of it and then kill it by freezing it. Send the photos and the location where you caught the fish to the isinfo@dec.ny.gov.
You can also submit a report through iMapinvasives.
Snakeheads were also found in Ridgebury Lake in Wawayanda but were eradicated in 2008. The species has also spread across New Jersey and has been spotted in Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester counties.
Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.