Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

Across much of North America, the common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is one of the snakes most often seen near yards, wetlands, meadows, and woodland edges. It is usually recognized by lengthwise yellow, cream, orange, or bluish stripes on a darker body, though color varies greatly by region and subspecies. Common garters are active hunters of earthworms, amphibians, fish, slugs, and small vertebrates, and they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. Their saliva contains mild venom used on prey, but bites to people are usually minor.

Captive common garter snakes are best obtained from legal, captive-bred sources, especially where local populations or subspecies are protected. They are more active than many pet snakes and need a secure, well-ventilated enclosure with hides, fresh water, and a temperature gradient that is not excessively hot. Feeding can include appropriately sourced worms, fish fillets, whole feeder fish chosen to avoid thiaminase problems, and pinky mice in lines that accept them. Wild garters also matter as backyard predators and prey, so avoiding pesticides, protecting damp cover, and leaving winter hibernation sites undisturbed can support them.