Common Garter Snake (Eastern Garter Snake)
Thamnophis sirtalis • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: Thamnophis sirtalis
Widely distributed across North America, ranging from the subarctic regions of Canada to the Gulf Coast of Mexico, and from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast (though absent from some arid southwestern regions).
Look up Common Garter Snake (Eastern Garter Snake) in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: Thamnophis sirtalis
Conservation
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. They are highly adaptable and abundant, though local populations can be threatened by habitat loss and pesticide use.
Physical Description
The specimen shows a dark dorsal color (brown to black) with a prominent light-colored mid-dorsal stripe and lateral stripes. The ventral (belly) scales are visible here, appearing pale greenish-yellow with dark spots on the edges. Scales are keeled (ridged).
Size & Dimensions
The specimen in the photo appears to be an adult, approximately 18-24 inches. The species typically ranges from 18 to 26 inches (46 to 66 cm), with a maximum recorded length of about 49 inches.
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in meadows, marshes, woodlands, and suburban backyards. They prefer areas near water sources like ponds, streams, or ditches. Occurs from sea level to high alpine elevations.
Diet & Feeding
Active foragers that consume a wide variety of prey including earthworms, slugs, frogs, toads, salamanders, fish, and occasionally small birds or rodents. They swallow prey whole without constriction.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Mating occurs in spring shortly after emerging from brumation. Litters can range from 10 to 40 young, born in late summer.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. They are highly adaptable and abundant, though local populations can be threatened by habitat loss and pesticide use.
Cultural Significance
Often the first snake encountered by children and gardeners, they are highly valued for pest control (eating slugs and locusts). They are often erroneously called 'garden' or 'gardener' snakes.
Notable Features
One of the few snake species that eat amphibians like American Toads and Rough-skinned Newts.