What are the different types of garter snakes?
Types Of Garter Snakes
- Common Garter Snake. The Common Garter Snake is one of the most widespread wild snakes in North America. ...
- Eastern Garter Snake. The Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis is a very common subspecies of the common variety. ...
- Albino Garter Snake. ...
- California Red-Sided Garter Snake. ...
- Blue-Striped Garter Snake. ...
- Checkered Garter Snake. ...
- Plains Garter Snake. ...
What is the class of a common garter snake?
Garter snake is a common name for generally harmless, small to medium-sized snakes belonging to the genus Thamnophis. Endemic to North and Central America, species in the genus Thamnophis can be found from the subarctic plains of Canada to Costa Rica. The common garter snake ( Thamnophis sirtalis) is the state reptile of Massachusetts.
What does a garter snake look like?
What exactly do garter snakes look like? Garter snakes are usually around two to three feet long, can come in a wide variety of colors (most often greens, browns, and grays), and always have “garter”-like stripes down the length of them. Garter snakes are cute and virtually harmless, but sometimes they can seem like a pest.
Do garter snakes bite and are they dangerous?
Some of the species of Garter snake possess a mild neurotoxic venom, but even those bites are not dangerous to humans. There have been some cases of mild swelling and itching in humans after a bite. Allergic reactions are rare, but they can happen. If you are bitten, you need to clean the bite immediately and thoroughly.
What do garter snake babies look like?
1:4713:05Baby Garters are Here! And they're Adorable - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThere's a little bit of movement actually okay so you are kind of alive now cool thing about garterMoreThere's a little bit of movement actually okay so you are kind of alive now cool thing about garter snakes is they actually have a placenta that the embryo will grow from of course now.
What colors do garter snakes come in?
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.
How do you tell if a snake is a garter snake?
Most species have a stripe on top of the back, and on the bottom of each side, but on some species this stripe is faint or absent, and sometimes the side stripes are absent. Many gartersnakes have red coloring on the sides, often with a red and black checkered pattern.
Are baby garter snakes red?
7:2012:04We got Baby Red-Sided Garter Snakes!! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThan others and they all have that reddish colored head and this is just the beginning of what they'MoreThan others and they all have that reddish colored head and this is just the beginning of what they're going to look like when they grow like both their parents have stunning colors.
How do you identify a baby snake?
The most obvious difference is in size. Coloration, scales, and head shape differ from species to species but generally remain the same when comparing adults to babies. Baby snakes do have a distinguishing egg tooth on their snout that allows them to exit the egg or live birth sac.
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.
What does it mean if you see a garter snake?
In some tribes, garter snakes (also known as garden snakes) are symbols of jealousy or dishonesty; to other tribes, they are a symbol of water. In the traditions of the Arapaho Indians, garter snakes are associated with the Sun Dance and are represented in the hoop of the tribe's sacred Medicine Wheel.
Are garter snakes good to have in your yard?
Many people report significant benefits to having garter snakes in their yards; they are seemingly a natural pest control. Garter snakes feed on earthworms, snails, grasshoppers, ants, crickets, and occasionally, rodents. Many of the insects garter snakes feed on are the ones feasting in our gardens.
Will a garter snake bite you?
Though garter snakes will use their sharp teeth to catch prey, it's very unlikely these pests will choose to bite a human. They typically only lash out at humans when they are provoked or feel threatened.
What Colour are baby brown snakes?
Once born, their distinguishing feature is a black marking on the back of their head however, other than that baby brown snakes can either be plain brown or have dark bands. “Further to the coast, the more banding, that banding can vary, the all have that black mark on the back of their neck,” he said.
Do baby garter snakes bite?
Like we said above, while they're relatively harmless, they can bite. So you don't want to get too close to its mouth and certainly want to teach small children to stay away from them, even if they're not poisonous.
Do garter snakes stay in the same area?
Unless, of course, their den is on your property. In contrast, harmless garter snakes and ringneck snakes will often burrow underground or find natural cavities (such as rodent burrows) to evade the cold. And they tend to stick in the same area. So if you see one in your yard, it may remain there for years.
Can garter snakes be blue?
This species has striking blue markings and a beautiful blue coloration. The Bluestripe Garter Snake is one of many subspecies of the Common Garter Snake. Blue-Striped Garter Snakes have the same dark gray base color as most Garters, but their stripes look as if they were painted on with a blue highlighter.
Can garter snakes be pink?
The Chihuahuan garter snake is brown or black and has three stripes running down its body, usually red or pink in color.
What are all the garter snake morphs?
The 10 Types of Garter Snakes: Morphs & ColorsCommon Garter Snake.Anerythristic.Albino.Blue morph.Flame.Orange.Red.Snow.More items...•
Are blue-striped garter snakes poisonous?
So, are garter snakes poisonous? No, they're not considered poisonous to humans. With the exception of a few species, which are capable of causing anaphylaxis in certain individuals that are bitten due to their mild venom but are still not considered dangerous to humans.
How big is a garter snake?
Growing up to five feet in length , it ranks as the largest garter snake and one of the longest native snakes regardless of family. The remainder of this article provides pictures and identification tips covering many garter snakes. Visitors interested in addition snake identification help are invited to press the green snakes button at the top ...
What is the common name for a garter snake?
Their propensity to inhabit residential areas explains the common name, garden snake. Whatever the common name, garter snake identification ofen starts by noting the thin and often colorfully striped body.
What is the name of the snake with the eight upper labial scales?
Compare Common Garter snakes with the snake in the next picture, the Terrestrial Gartersnake (Thamnophis elegans). The picture shows a snake with eight upper labial scales. Aquatic Garter Snakes (Thamnophis atratus atrastas) are a Western specialty with a presence in California and Oregon. Butler’s Gartersnake (Thamnophis butleri) ...
What is the skin pattern of a wandering garter snake?
The picture shows a typical wandering garter snake skin pattern, characterized by the light color stripes. A close up picture would show the snake’s eight upper labial scales, typical of all Thamnophis elegans subspecies.
Why is the Garter snake called the Garden Snake?
Garter snake identification gets a good deal of attention because they inhabit backyards and multiple grass habitats throughout North America. In short, the snake in the grass raises people’s curiosity. Their propensity to inhabit residential areas explains the common name, garden snake.
How many numbers are on a common garter snake?
The above picture shows a close up of a Common Garter Snake with numbers from 1-7 printed on the upper labial scales. That physical characteristic is usually, but not always sufficient to differentiate it from other species.
What states have garter snakes?
Some neighboring states such as Oklahoma and Ut ah. Subspecies have slight color differences. The presence of the black color on the neck unites them. The Northwestern garter snake (Thamnophis ordinoides) are another West Coast specialty with a presence in Washington, Oregon and California.
How do I know this snake is a Garter snake?
Garter snakes are not the easiest to identify. They come in a wide variety of colors, but most have three stripes running down their bodies. The color of each individual snake and its stripes depends on its species.
What does a female garter snake do?
The female Garter snake puts off a strong-smelling pheromone, which will attract dozens of males. After the mating is complete, the female snake carries the sperm inside her body until she is ready to fertilize her eggs.
Why do garter snakes smell?
Some species of Garter snakes are even proficient swimmers. Whenever a Garter snake feels threatened, they produce a foul-smelling musk. They use this odor to defend themselves against predators.
What to do if you have questions about garter snakes?
We will make your pest problems our pest problems, and taking care of pest problems is our business.
What snakes live in North America?
If you live in North America, the chances are that you have seen a Garter snake at some point in your life. Garter snakes are some of the most common varieties of snakes.
How to keep a snake warm?
Make sure it has a lid that can be secured. Your snake will need fresh water, and you will need to keep the tank in a warm place. Consider purchasing a heat lamp to keep your new critter warm. It would be best if you fill your new pet’s habitat with rocks and a bed of shredded paper.
What spider has a dark brown hourglass?
The Brown Recluse spider has a darker brown hourglass on its back. The Brown Recluse loves to be indoors and generally stays out of sight. It may never be seen until you startle it by reaching into a dark spot where it is hiding. Then it will bite.
What color are garter snakes?
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.
Where can I find a Garter Snake?
This snake can be found anywhere east of the Mississippi River to Vermont and New Hampshire and south of Ontario to the Florida Keys.
What Is The Difference Between A Garden Snake And A Garter Snake?
The difference between a garden snake and the garter species is misunderstood by many people. This has led to many families of snakes (e.g. Ribbon, Brown and Garter Snakes) being grouped together and called garden snakes.
What snakes have red stripes?
California Red-Sided Garter Snake. The California Red-Sided Garter Snake is one of the most striking snakes in this list. As their red common name suggests this snake has very bright red markings on its side. If you have one in your yard, they’ll be quite hard to miss with their striking appearance.
What is the most common snake in North America?
The Common Garter Snake is one of the most widespread wild snakes in North America.
What is a garden snake?
Garden Snakes is a general term used for any species that is commonly found in yards. This can include the Garter species but also includes Copperheads and Ribbon snakes. Garter snakes are a specific species of snake in the genus Thamnophis that are commonly found in gardens.
How many different subspecies of black-necked garter snakes are there?
There are two different subspecies of Black-Necked Garter Snake:
How much does a garter snake weigh?
Garter snakes vary in length from 46 to 137 cm (18 to 54 in) and weigh approximately 140 g (5 oz). With no real consensus on the classification of species of Thamnophis, disagreement between taxonomists and sources such as field guides over whether two types of snakes are separate species or subspecies of the same species is common. Garter snakes are closely related to the genus Nerodia (water snakes), with some species having been moved back and forth between genera.
Where are garter snakes found?
Habitat. Garter snakes are present throughout most of North America. They have a wide distribution due to their varied diets and adaptability to different habitats, with varying proximity to water; however, in the western part of North America, these snakes are more aquatic than in the eastern portion.
What do garter snakes eat?
Garter snakes, like all snakes, are carnivorous. Their diet consists of almost any creature they are capable of overpowering: slugs, earthworms ( nightcrawlers, as red wigglers are toxic to garter snakes), leeches, lizards, amphibians (including frog eggs), minnows, and rodents. When living near water, they will eat other aquatic animals. The ribbon snake ( Thamnophis sauritus) in particular favors frogs (including tadpoles ), readily eating them despite their strong chemical defenses. Food is swallowed whole. Garter snakes often adapt to eating whatever they can find and whenever they can find it because food can be either scarce or abundant. Although they feed mostly on live animals, they will sometimes eat eggs.
What is the name of the snake that is harmless?
Atomarchus, Chilopoma, Eutaenia, Eutainia, Phamnovis, Prymnomiodon, Stypocemus, Tropidonote, Tropidonotus. Garter snake is a common name for generally harmless, small to medium-sized snakes belonging to the genus Thamnophis. Endemic to North and Central America, species in the genus Thamnophis can be found from the subarctic plains ...
How do garter snakes communicate?
Garter snakes use the vomeronasal organ to communicate via pheromones through the tongue flicking behavior which gathers chemical cues in the environment. Upon entering the lumen of the organ, the chemical molecules will come into contact with the sensory cells which are attached to the neurosensory epithelium of the vomeronasal organ.
Why do garter snakes bask in the sun?
Being heterothermic, like all reptiles, garter snakes bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature. During brumation (the reptile equivalent of hibernation), garter snakes typically occupy large, communal sites called hibernacula. These snakes will migrate large distances to brumate.
Do garter snakes have venom?
Garter snakes were long thought to be non-venomous but discoveries in the early 2000s revealed that they in fact produce a neurotoxic venom. Despite this, garter snakes cannot seriously injure or kill humans with the small amounts of comparatively mild venom they produce and they also lack an effective means of delivering it. In a few cases some swelling and bruising have been reported. They do have enlarged teeth in the back of their mouth but their gums are significantly larger and the secretions of their Duvernoy's gland are only mildly toxic.
What color are garter snakes?
They typically have an olive, tan, grey, or black base color, often with one or more cream stripes running down the length of their body.
Where do Garter snakes live?
Garter snakes, often simply called garden snakes, are a common species of wild snake found throughout North America, and they can be readily found in gardens and near bodies of water, like ponds, rivers, and wetlands. They are small, slender snakes, and there are approximately 75 different species and subspecies. Their small size makes them adaptable to living in a variety of different environments.
What color are blue morphs?
The blue morph Garter has a very dark blue to black base color, ranging from deep blues to a blueish white tone across their body. They typically have light blue bellies, although they can be found with completely black bellies too. They may even be found with a greenish or yellowish blue coloring on their bodies. They are a popular morph for collectors.
What color is an anerythrisic morph?
Defined as “lacking in red pigments,” the anerythrisic morph has a dark brown to black base color , with touches of blue and grey. They also have a single white, cream, or grey dorsal stripe running down their body and are devoid of the red spotting commonly seen in many Garter morphs.
How to tell if a baby snake is a baby snake?
The most distinguishing identifying feature, which when combined with the others, tells you what type the baby snake is, is the color pattern on the body. A baby milk snake has a very bold pattern consisting of a body that can vary from a light gray to tan. The body has patterns of two black bands surrounding reddish brown blotches. They will be larger on the side than they are on the bottom. The pattern is very similar to that of a copperhead with the one difference being that the copperhead does not have a pattern on the head. The baby gopher snake can be cream/green, green/gray or tan with blotches in black, brown or red. The baby king snake has many sub-species and they all have a distinctive pattern which can be red, yellow, orange, tan, black or white that can appear as bands, rings, stripes, patches, spots or speckles. The baby ball python is generally black with blotches of brown or green on the sides and the underside is white or off white and sometimes has black marks. The corn snake got its name because the pattern looks like kernels of Indian corn. The baby red tailed boa has a body that is reddish brown, turning to brick red on the tail.
What is the pattern of a baby King Snake?
The baby king snake has many sub-species and they all have a distinctive pattern which can be red, yellow, orange, tan, black or white that can appear as bands, rings, stripes, patches, spots or speckles.
What snake has a dark line?
The gopher snake has a dark line that runs between the eyes and one the goes from behind the eyes to the jaw. The head of the king snake is wider than the neck, with scales that resemble a plate and very bulging eyes. The head of a baby ball python will look very small in relation to its body, which is very stocky.
What does a baby corn snake look like?
The baby corn snake looks like it does not even have a head; it looks like an extension of its body. The red tailed boa has a head that is wider than the body with a brownish red line running between the eyes, which will be the same color as the spots.
What snake has smooth scales?
The milk snake has smooth scales, giving it a glossy appearance. The gopher snake has a combination of scales, strongly keeled on the back and smooth on the sides. The king snake has smooth shiny scales with a glossy look. The baby ball python has scales that are very smooth.
Why is a baby ball python called a corn snake?
The corn snake got its name because the pattern looks like kernels of Indian corn.
What Does a Garden Snake Look Like?
These snakes are usually brown or black but may be a greenish color. Most have a checkerboard pattern near the stripes. Other colors of these snakes vary.
How big are garden snakes?
What does a garden snake look like? These small snakes are generally no more than two to three feet (.61-.91 m.) long with lengthwise markings in yellow, red or white.
How to keep snakes out of garden?
If you can’t tolerate the idea of snakes in the garden, habitat modification is the most effective way to keep them out.
Can red garter snakes be harmful?
In California and some northwestern states, there are 10 or more types of red garter snakes. Coexist with garden snakes if you can. They’re not harmful to humans. In fact, they can even be helpful in the garden . Be prepared to recognize them in your garden, though, so you don’t mistake them for a venomous type.
Do checkered garter snakes move around?
In Texas, one might find the checkered garter snakes, which are mostly active at night. (Most garden snakes move around during the day, except when the temperature gets too high. This is when they become active at night.)
How to identify a baby copperhead snake?
But first, here are the key factors you’ll want to look out for when identifying a baby copperhead snake: A spade shaped head. Nearly all venomous snake species found in North America have a spade shaped head. Narrow slit pupils.
What color is a copperhead snake's belly?
Generally, the belly is beige to darker – but because copperhead snakes tend to move around when scared or startled, you might have better luck looking at some of their other physical features.
Why is my baby copperhead tail turning yellow?
When they get older, the green tail fades away. This is because they become more experienced hunters as copperheads mature.
What is the name of the snake with copper head?
This species of snake is technically a type of viper, and fall under the same family as rattlesnakes and pit vipers. Further, the species derives their common name from the unique copper-colored head. Their head, along with many other venomous snakes, takes on a somewhat triangular shape.
What does panic mean when a snake bites you?
Increasing the breathing and heart rate only means that any venom actually administered by the snake moves through your system faster.
What snake has tiny slits in its eyes?
The tiny slits of the eye of a copperhead are unique to the viper family of snakes. You’ll also commonly see the eyes in rattlesnakes. Don’t get too close, though. If you have to look at the eyes to determine whether it’s a copperhead or not, it’s best to stay clear so it doesn’t strike.
How to prevent snakes from coming into your house?
First, make sure all of your garage doors and entrances to your home are sealed. The last place you want a venomous snake is in your home.