Common Garter Snake

The Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is a numerous snake indigenous to North America. Most garter snakes have a pattern of yellow stripes on a brown or green background and their average length is about 55 cm (22 in), maximum about 137 cm (54 in). The average body mass is 150 g (5.3 oz).

The Common Garter Snake is a diurnal snake. In summer, it is most active in the morning and late afternoon; in cooler seasons or climates, it restricts its activity to the warm afternoons.

In warmer southern areas, the snake is active year-round; otherwise, it sleeps in common dens, sometimes in great numbers. On warm winter afternoons, some snakes have been observed emerging from their hibernacula to bask in the sun.

The saliva of a garter snake may be toxic to amphibians and other small animals. For humans, a bite is not dangerous, though it may cause slight itching, burning, and/or swelling. Most garter snakes also secrete a foul-smelling fluid from postanal glands when handled or harmed.