Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: Thamnophis sirtalis
North America, ranging from southern Canada through most of the United States down to parts of northeastern Mexico.
Look up Common Garter Snake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: Thamnophis sirtalis
Conservation
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, due to its very wide distribution, high adaptability, and large overall population numbers.
Physical Description
Grayish-brown ground color with scattered dark spots or blotches along the back and sides. The head features distinct dark markings around the labial scales and a narrow snout. Scales are keeled, giving a textured appearance, and the body is moderately slender.
Size & Dimensions
The pictured specimen appears to be a juvenile, approximately 10 to 14 inches long. Adults typically reach lengths of 18 to 54 inches.
Habitat
Found in a wide variety of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, wetlands, fields, and suburban backyards, often near water sources. Typically hides under surface cover such as logs, rocks, and leaf litter.
Diet & Feeding
Diet consists primarily of amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders), earthworms, small fish, and occasionally small rodents or birds. They actively forage for prey using keen senses.
Reproduction
Viviparous, giving birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Mating typically occurs in the spring after emerging from brumation, resulting in litters ranging from 10 to 40 or more offspring.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, due to its very wide distribution, high adaptability, and large overall population numbers.
Cultural Significance
A familiar and ecologically important predator in North American ecosystems, frequently serving as an educational ambassador for reptile conservation in schools and nature centers.
Notable Features
Demonstrates excellent adaptability to human-altered landscapes.
Notes
3:46 pm likes to hide under leaves found in Campbell Ohio