Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: T. sirtalis
Widely distributed across North America, ranging from the Atlantic to the Pacific, from Canada down through much of the United States.
Look up Garter Snake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: T. sirtalis
Conservation
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, with stable populations across most of its native range.
Physical Description
Slender body with dark coloration, visible longitudinal striping, keeled scales, and a relatively distinct head from the neck.
Size & Dimensions
Specimen is estimated around 50 cm. Typical adult length ranges from 46 to 130 cm.
Habitat
Found in a diverse range of habitats including forests, fields, woodlands, and close to permanent or temporary bodies of water like ponds, marshes, and ditches.
Diet & Feeding
Diet consists primarily of amphibians, earthworms, small fish, and occasionally other small vertebrates. They are active foragers.
Reproduction
Viviparous (giving birth to live young), producing litters that typically range from 10 to 40 offspring, though larger litters can occur.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, with stable populations across most of its native range.
Cultural Significance
Commonly encountered in suburban and rural backyards, frequently kept as educational pets, and plays an important role in controlling amphibian and invertebrate populations.
Notable Features
Demonstrates notable resilience to varying environments and is well-known for its adaptability and musking behavior.