The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) confirmed that an exotic fish was discovered in a Colonial Heights reservoir.
DGIF biologists found the predatory Northern Snakehead in Lakeview Reservoir on Friday.
The department says that all snakehead should be killed after they’re captured because of the significant impact they may have on ecosystems. Additionally, they may transmit parasites and diseases to native wildlife in those systems.
Snakeheads are usually spread through people intentionally introducing them into new bodies of water, the department says. This activity is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of $2500, or both.
