Through the years there have been tales and legends about monsters that lurk underwater in Lake Michigan…serpent-like beasts, Loch Ness-type monsters, and others.

While those are highly unlikely, there are some dangerous creatures that have been – and can possibly be - in that lake. The chances of encountering one of these things may be extremely low, but it is possible.

BULL SHARK
Unconfirmed reports of Bull Sharks caught in Lake Michigan have been around since the 1950’s. Bull Sharks are not limited to salt water – they can adapt fine to fresh. Thanks to the Mississippi River, they have been found as far north as Minnesota and Illinois. The possibility of these sharks making their way into Lake Michigan is very real…if they haven’t already.

PIRANHA
Piranha has turned up in smaller lakes but so far, no confirmed report of any in Lake Michigan. However, a relative of the Piranha, the Pacus, has been discovered in Lake St. Clair in Port Huron. These South American native fish sport human-like teeth and would be able to survive the cold waters of Lake Michigan. Many Michigan fishermen have been catching these Piranha cousins, probably let loose by someone who owned some as exotic pets.

SEA LAMPREY
This eel-like fish is the vampire of the lakes. These creatures originated in the Atlantic Ocean and somehow made their way into Lake Michigan. With its many, many, sharp teeth, the sea lamprey latches onto whatever it can – larger fish and yes, humans – and sucks the blood, juice, and sometimes innards out of its prey after boring a hole with its tongue.

SNAKEHEAD
These slimy things have sharp teeth, can grow up to 3 feet long, and are able to walk on land for 7 days by using their fins. What do they eat? ANYTHING they come across. Once their food supply is gone, they get up on land and ‘walk’ to the next body of water, where they proceed to eat as much as they can find. And yes, they’ll even chew on humans and pets, if you give them the chance.

MORE MICHIGAN CRITTERS!

Spikehorn Meyer

The Lighthouse of Monarch Butterflies

Michigan's Love of Chickens

 

 

 

More From 99.1 WFMK