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Snakes

Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

Across the regions where it's common, the Common Garter Snake peaks from March to October.

Shows up in 33 ecoregions and 43 states

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Snakes

Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

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

The common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is a species of snake in the subfamily Natricinae of the family Colubridae. Few grow over about 4 ft (1.2 m) long, and most stay smaller.Wikipedia ↗

Habitat

The habitat of the common garter snake ranges from forests, fields, and prairies to streams, wetlands, meadows, marshes, and ponds, and it is often found near water. Common garter snakes are native to the Nearctic region only.Wikipedia ↗Animal Diversity Web ↗

When it's active

The common garter snake is a diurnal snake. In warmer southern areas, the snake is active year-round; otherwise, it sleeps in common dens, sometimes in great numbers.Wikipedia ↗
Tom Kennedy · CC BY 4.0

About the Common Garter Snake

When is the Common Garter Snake most active?

Across the regions where it's common, the Common Garter Snake peaks from March to October.

Where does the Common Garter Snake live?

It has enough records to show in 33 ecoregions and 43 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, California, and Colorado.