Common garter snakes are highly variable in color pattern. They typically have three light stripes that run along the length of their body on a black, brown, gray, or olive background. The stripes can be white, yellow, blue, greenish, or brown .
Do garden snakes have stripes?
But, this does not apply to all species, as you will soon learn how to identify them! Common Garter Snakes are normally bluish-gray or black. They have one bright stripe down their spine and a lighter cream stripe on either side of their body .
Do all garter snakes have stripes?
Most have three stripes running the length of their bodies , though some snakes are a solid color. The stripes may be yellow, white, green or blue. The chin and belly of the snake usually match the stripes in color.
What snake looks like a garter snake?
Ribbon snakes resemble the closely-related eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), however ribbon snakes are generally more slender, have unpatterned lip scales, and the lateral stripes are found on scale rows 3 and 4 (in garter snakes they are on rows 2 and 3). They have a plain yellowish belly, and keeled scales.
What is the difference between a garden snake and a garter snake?
There is no difference between a garter snake and a garden snake . Both names refer to the same species, the Thamnophis sirtalis, which is the most common non-venomous reptile in North America. While they vary in color, garter snakes are easily recognizable for 3 lines that run through their bodies.
Are garter snakes good to have in your yard?
A few garter snakes in the garden can be a good thing. They eat insects and other pests , so they can control those pests that harm your plants. You don’t want a large number of these snakes in your garden, however. ... While generally shy and withdrawing, a garter snake will bite if you accidentally step on them.
Can a garter snake live if cut in half?
The separated pieces of snakes and lizards may seem to be alive but they will eventually stop moving and die because their blood supply is cut. It’s impossible for cut vessels and organs and nerves to reattach or realign on their own.
How can you tell if its a garter snake?
Garter Snake Species Identification
Most have three stripes running the length of their bodies , though some snakes are a solid color. The stripes may be yellow, white, green or blue. The chin and belly of the snake usually match the stripes in color.
Can a garter snake hurt a dog?
These snakes are considered mildly venomous. Their venom does not affect humans, but amphibians and small animals may experience minor toxicity from a garter snake bite. Your pup may experience some irritation if he is bitten, but it is unlikely to be serious .
Do garter snakes live in holes?
Garter snakes prefer tall grass, marshland (near water), forested areas. While in these environments, snakes may seek shelter in tree hollows, under logs, leaf litter, underground holes , rock outcroppings and/or burrows that have been abandoned by other animals.
Are garter snakes aggressive?
Garter snakes are shy . They will generally avoid humans and animal contact and prefer to be left alone. If you have Garter snakes in your yard or garden, chances are you may not even know.
How do you tell the difference between a garter snake and a ribbon snake?
Garter snakes’ bodies are described as “stockier” when compared to ribbon snakes. A long tail. Ribbon snakes’ tails are one-third or more of their total length; garter snakes’ tails are generally one-quarter or less of their total length. Narrower heads than garter snakes’ heads.
What animals eat garter snakes?
Because of their small size, garter snakes have many predators, including hawks, crows, bears, bullfrogs, snapping turtles, foxes, squirrels and raccoons , according to the Animal Diversity Web (ADW), a database maintained by the University of Michigan’s Museum of Zoology.
Do garter snake bites hurt?
Like any animal’s bite, the garter snakes’ bite will hurt , but it is unlikely to cause serious issues, or even death. Some species do contain venom, although it is not considered significantly toxic to humans. However, if bitten by a garter snake, it is best to clean it with soap and water to prevent bacteria build up.
What do you need to keep a garter snake?
Garter snakes need a basking area between 90-95 degrees for proper digestion. Heat can be provided by either a basking lamp, heat tape (or Zilla Heat Mat) under the tank or both.
How long do garter snakes live?
The life span of an average common garter snake can range from four to five years . However, they can live up to 10 years in captivity.
