Lake Texoma Animals

Wildlife of Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma, the sprawling reservoir that straddles the Texas-Oklahoma border, is more than just a paradise for boaters, anglers, and campers—it’s also a vibrant ecosystem teeming with wildlife. From the skies above to the waters below, and across the rugged shores and wooded islands, a diverse array of animals thrive around this 89,000-acre lake. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water, you’re sharing this beautiful landscape with countless creatures, both big and small.

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Lake Texoma’s animals and learn more about the species that make this area their home.

🐟 The Fish of Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is famous among anglers for its striped bass—in fact, it’s one of the few inland lakes in the United States where striped bass spawn naturally. Fishing enthusiasts come from all over the country hoping to reel in a trophy striper.

Other popular fish species in Lake Texoma include:

• Largemouth bass
• Smallmouth bass
• White bass
• Channel catfish
• Blue catfish (including record-sized catches!)
• Crappie
• Sunfish
• Gar

Beneath the water’s surface, these fish form a complex food web, feeding on shad, minnows, and smaller aquatic organisms. The lake’s mixture of fresh and salt water—due to natural salt springs flowing into the Red River—creates a unique environment that supports both freshwater and salt-tolerant species.

🦅 Birds of Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during migration seasons. The lake and its islands provide crucial habitat for migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of prey.

Some of the notable bird species you might spot include:

• Bald eagles (especially in winter, roosting near the lake)
• Ospreys
• Great blue herons
• Snowy egrets
• Double-crested cormorants
• Pelicans (both American white pelicans and brown pelicans)
• Various species of ducks and geese

During spring and fall migrations, you might see hundreds of birds resting on the islands or along the shores. Bald eagles are a highlight in colder months, especially around Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, located on the lake’s northern edge.

🦝 Mammals Around the Lake

While you’re camping or exploring the shores of Lake Texoma, you might cross paths with several mammal species that live in the surrounding woodlands, grasslands, and islands. Common mammals in the area include:

• White-tailed deer
• Raccoons
• Armadillos
• Coyotes
• Bobcats (rarely seen, but present)
• Foxes
• Opossums
• Beavers and muskrats (along creeks and wetland areas)

At night, the sounds of wildlife come alive—owls hooting, coyotes calling, and raccoons rustling through campsites in search of leftover snacks. It’s always a good idea to store food securely when camping to avoid attracting curious critters!

🐍 Reptiles and Amphibians

The warm climate around Lake Texoma provides a habitat for various reptiles and amphibians, from harmless snakes to basking turtles. Some species you might encounter include:

• Western cottonmouth (water moccasin)
• Western rat snake
• Coachwhip snake
• Five-lined skink
• American bullfrog
• Green tree frog
• Red-eared slider turtles
• Common snapping turtles

While snake encounters are rare, visitors should always stay cautious around rocks and brush, especially near water. Most snakes are non-venomous and play an important role in keeping rodent populations in check.

🦋 Insects and Other Creatures

On warm summer days, you’ll likely spot dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies, and bees flitting among the wildflowers and shoreline vegetation. Mosquitoes can be abundant in some areas, especially near stagnant water, so insect repellent is always a good idea when exploring.

Spiders like the orb-weaver spin intricate webs near trails and campsites, while tarantulas are occasionally seen wandering during late summer and fall as males search for mates.

🦌 Wildlife Watching Hotspots

If you’re interested in observing wildlife around Lake Texoma, here are a few great locations to visit:

✅ Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma side): Excellent for birdwatching, especially waterfowl and bald eagles.

✅ Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge: Another great spot for birds and wetland species.

✅ Eisenhower State Park (Texas side): Look for deer, raccoons, and a variety of reptiles along trails and campgrounds.

✅ The lake’s islands: Some islands serve as nesting sites for herons, egrets, and pelicans—boaters should avoid disturbing nesting colonies during breeding season.

🌿 Respecting Wildlife and Nature

Lake Texoma’s animals are part of a delicate ecosystem that supports both recreational and natural values. When visiting, always follow these guidelines:

• Observe animals from a distance
• Never feed wildlife
• Pack out all trash to avoid harming animals
• Respect closed areas during nesting or breeding seasons

🌊 A Living, Breathing Lake

Lake Texoma isn’t just a recreational hotspot—it’s a living, breathing environment full of life. From the eagles soaring above to the striped bass swimming below, the animals of Lake Texoma enrich every visit with their presence. Whether you’re fishing at dawn, birdwatching in a quiet cove, or camping under the stars, keep your eyes and ears open—you never know what wild wonders you might encounter.

Have you spotted any interesting animals at Lake Texoma? Share your wildlife sightings in the comments below!