As Central Texans and those in the Hill Country recover from flooding in their neighborhoods, some smaller residents also were tossed from their habitats: Fish in the Highland Lakes have been swirled around and scattered by floodwaters, worsening prospects for anglers hoping to return to previously populated fishing spots.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials received a report on Tuesday that more than 1,000 dead fish were stranded on the banks of Lake LBJ. When floodwaters receded in Llano last week, dozens of small perch and crappie fish became stranded ashore.

During floods, fast-moving water rises up and fish can become stuck in small pools. But once waters recede, fish get stuck in the pools and end up dying, TPWD spokeswoman Aubry Buzek said.

"(Fish stranding) is fairly common with flood events like this," Buzek said.

As the area recovers from the flooding, more stranded fish are likely to be found and anglers will have a harder time finding a lucky spot to cast a line because the fish have been scattered around, Buzek said.

Anglers can find a list of public boat ramps, campgrounds and parking, and maps for each lake on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's website once lakes are reopened, she said.

Floodwaters also interrupted vegetation living in the lakes. Vegetation is dying off because of a lack of light since the water is so muddy and it's been ripped up by intense water, she said.

"There's a lot of water coming through and it's moving very fast," Buzek said. "If it's enough to rip out a bridge in Kingsland, it's having an effect on a lot of things including vegetation."

Biologists are also concerned that animal habitats took on too much water during the flood event, causing them to flee to nearby neighborhoods.

"Without habitat, terrestrial wildlife species like snakes, skunks, raccoons and deer can end up displaced and temporarily forced into populated areas seeking cover and high ground," Buzek said.

Any neighbors cleaning up debris piles should be careful as some animals like to use them for shelter.

"Over time, displaced wildlife will return to their usual habitats as the water recedes and vegetation recovers."

So far, wildlife officials have not received any reports of fish or other wildlife being killed by poor water quality on the Highland Lakes, Buzek said.