Lake Pontchartrain Animals

Lake Pontchartrain Wildlife

When most people think of Lake Pontchartrain, they picture its sprawling waters, the famous Causeway Bridge, and its role in Louisiana culture. But beneath the surface and along the shores, Lake Pontchartrain is teeming with wildlife—from fish and crabs to birds and even the occasional alligator.

So, what animals actually live in Lake Pontchartrain? Whether you're a nature lover, an angler, or simply curious, let’s explore the fascinating species that inhabit this vast estuarine ecosystem.

🐟 Fish of Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain is known for its brackish waters, meaning it’s a mix of saltwater and freshwater. This unique environment supports a diverse range of fish species, including both freshwater and saltwater varieties. Popular fish found here include:

✅ Speckled trout (spotted seatrout) – prized by anglers for sport fishing, especially in the eastern, saltier parts of the lake.

✅ Redfish (red drum) – another popular game fish that thrives in brackish water.

✅ Flounder – these flatfish are often caught near passes and bridges.

✅ Black drum – large bottom-feeders that can grow to impressive sizes.

✅ Sheepshead – known for their striped bodies and human-like teeth.

✅ Catfish (blue, channel) – abundant in the lake’s fresher areas, especially closer to river inflows.

✅ Largemouth bass – mainly found on the lake’s northern and western sides, where freshwater influence is stronger.

This variety makes Lake Pontchartrain a favorite for anglers who want a mix of saltwater and freshwater fishing without leaving shore.

🦀 Crustaceans and Shellfish

It’s not just fish that thrive here—crabs, shrimp, and other shellfish also call Lake Pontchartrain home. The lake supports:

🦐 White shrimp and brown shrimp – vital to Louisiana’s seafood industry; shrimpers often work the lake’s eastern waters.

🦀 Blue crabs – popular for both commercial harvest and backyard crab boils; they favor the brackish marshes and shallow waters.

Oysters used to be more abundant in Lake Pontchartrain, but environmental changes and overharvesting have reduced their numbers in recent decades. Restoration efforts aim to rebuild these important reef habitats.

🐊 Do Alligators Live in Lake Pontchartrain?

Yes! While not as common as in the nearby swamps and bayous, American alligators occasionally appear in Lake Pontchartrain, especially in marshy areas and canals connected to the lake. Most sightings happen on the lake’s north shore or near wetland preserves.

Alligators aren’t typically a threat to boaters or swimmers, but it’s wise to be cautious in areas where they’ve been spotted.

🐬 Marine Visitors: Are There Dolphins or Sharks?

Believe it or not, bottlenose dolphins are sometimes seen swimming in Lake Pontchartrain! They typically enter through the Rigolets or Chef Menteur Pass when saltwater levels are high. Dolphin sightings are more common in the eastern part of the lake, closer to Gulf connections.

And yes, bull sharks have also been documented in the lake. Since bull sharks tolerate brackish and even freshwater, they occasionally venture into Lake Pontchartrain, especially during the warmer months. However, shark attacks are extremely rare here.

🐦 Birdlife of Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain is a haven for migratory and resident birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Some of the notable bird species include:

🦅 Ospreys and bald eagles – often seen hunting fish near bridges and open water.

🦩 Roseate spoonbills and herons – feeding in marshes and shallows.

🦢 Pelicans and cormorants – common sights near pilings, docks, and fishing boats.

🦆 Ducks and other waterfowl – abundant during winter migrations.

The surrounding wetlands are critical stopovers for migratory birds traveling along the Mississippi Flyway.

🦎 Reptiles, Amphibians, and More

Along the lake’s shores and in nearby wetlands, you’ll find a range of other animals, including:

✅ Turtles (red-eared sliders, softshell turtles)

✅ Water snakes (non-venomous species like banded water snakes)

✅ Frogs and toads in marshy areas

✅ Nutria and muskrats

These species thrive in the mix of freshwater, brackish marshes, and cypress swamps bordering the lake.

Why Is Lake Pontchartrain’s Wildlife So Diverse?

Lake Pontchartrain’s estuarine ecosystem—where salt and fresh water meet—creates rich habitats for a variety of animals. The balance of marshes, open water, seagrass beds, and tidal passes supports species from both marine and freshwater environments.

This diversity makes the lake important not only for wildlife but also for fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, and outdoor recreation.

Final Thoughts: A Living, Breathing Ecosystem

From speckled trout to pelicans, from shrimp to the occasional dolphin or shark, Lake Pontchartrain is home to a surprisingly wide array of animals. It’s a reminder that even in urban areas like New Orleans, nature thrives just beyond the city skyline.

Whether you’re casting a fishing line, watching birds from the shore, or cruising under the Causeway Bridge, keep an eye out for the incredible wildlife that makes Lake Pontchartrain such a special place.

🌿 Have you spotted an unusual animal at Lake Pontchartrain? Share your wildlife sightings or favorite nature moments in the comments!