Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: Thamnophis sirtalis
Widely distributed throughout North America, ranging from the subarctic regions of Canada through most of the United States to northern Mexico; it is one of the most widely distributed snake species on the continent.
Look up Common Garter Snake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Thamnophis, Species: Thamnophis sirtalis
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN). Highly adaptable to human-altered landscapes, though local populations can be affected by pesticide use and loss of wetlands.
Physical Description
Slender body with three longitudinal stripes: one down the center of the back and one on each side. Coloration is typically dark olive, brown, or black with yellowish or greenish stripes. Scales are keeled (ridged). The head is distinct from the neck with large eyes and round pupils.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen in the image appears to be a subadult or adult, approximately 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) long. Adults typically range from 18 to 26 inches, with a maximum record of about 49 inches.
Habitat
Extremely versatile, found in forests, fields, prairies, and suburban backyards; typically prefers areas near water such as marshes, ponds, and streams. They are found from sea level to high mountain elevations.
Diet & Feeding
Generalist carnivore. Feeds on earthworms, slugs, frogs, toads, salamanders, fish, and occasionally small rodents. They use their keen sense of smell and sight to hunt and do not constrict their prey.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young). Breeding occurs in the spring after emerging from hibernation. Females produce large litters, typically ranging from 10 to 40 young, born late summer or early fall.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Highly adaptable to human-altered landscapes, though local populations can be affected by pesticide use and loss of wetlands.
Cultural Significance
One of the most recognized snakes in North America. They play a vital ecological role by controlling pest populations of slugs and insects and serve as a primary food source for birds of prey.
Notable Features
They are one of the few snake species that prey on rough-skinned newts. They are also famous for hibernating in large communal dens called hibernacula, which can contain thousands of snakes.