Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis • Order Squamata, Suborder Serpentes, Family Colubridae, Subfamily Natricinae, Genus Thamnophis, Species T. sirtalis
Widely distributed across North America, ranging from southern Canada through the United States to northern Mexico.
Look up Common Garter Snake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order Squamata, Suborder Serpentes, Family Colubridae, Subfamily Natricinae, Genus Thamnophis, Species T. sirtalis
Conservation
Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, though local populations face threats from habitat loss and road mortality.
Physical Description
Displays a dark brown body with faint longitudinal striping, keeled dorsal scales, and a rounded head blending into a slender neck.
Size & Dimensions
Specimen is estimated around 60 cm; adults typically range from 46 to 130 cm in total length.
Habitat
Founds in diverse habitats including meadows, marshes, woodlands, and urban areas, typically near permanent or temporary water sources.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds opportunistically on amphibians, earthworms, fish, and small mammals, employing active foraging strategies.
Reproduction
Viviparous species giving birth to live young, producing litters ranging from 10 to 40 offspring in mid-summer.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, though local populations face threats from habitat loss and road mortality.
Cultural Significance
Serves as an important ecological predator controlling amphibian and rodent populations while acting as common educational subjects.
Notable Features
Exhibits excellent adaptability to human-altered environments and demonstrates strong tolerance for cooler climatic conditions.