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Snakes
Sierra Garter Snake
Thamnophis couchii
Across the regions where it's common, the Sierra Garter Snake peaks from April to October.
Shows up in 2 ecoregions and 1 state
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Snakes
Sierra Garter Snake
Thamnophis couchii
Look, don't take. Many states regulate collecting reptiles and amphibians. Photograph it, log it on iNaturalist and leave it where you found it.
Description
Thamnophis couchii, commonly known as Couch's garter snake, the Sierra garter snake, or the western aquatic garter snake, is a highly aquatic species of snake in the family Colubridae. They possess a somewhat pointed head, which aids in underwater foraging in fast-flowing currents.Wikipedia ↗
Habitat
T. couchii is native to California with a small population in west-central Nevada and the Owens Valley. It is predominantly found in the Sierra Nevada mountains, ranging from the Pit and Sacramento rivers south to the Tehachapi Mountains.Wikipedia ↗
When it's active
T. couchii is highly aquatic and diurnal. During winter months, especially at higher elevations in the Sierra Nevada, the snakes undergo brumation (hibernation) in communal dens for several months.Wikipedia ↗
When and where it's active
Each row is its own calendar, counted from records in that area. Seasons shift by place.
PeakShoulderQuiet
Ecoregions
States
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
CaliforniaAbout the Sierra Garter Snake
When is the Sierra Garter Snake most active?
Across the regions where it's common, the Sierra Garter Snake peaks from April to October.
Where does the Sierra Garter Snake live?
It has enough records to show in 2 ecoregions and 1 states, including California.