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Information on Snakes | Information and Illustrations of Specific Snakes
Snakes of Massachusetts
Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis (18-26", up to 48")
Adult Garter Snake
Stripe pattern
Generally, you can recognize this most common of all New England snakes by its
pattern of yellow stripes on a black or brown background. Although the
pattern is variable, it usually consists of a narrow stripe down the
middle of the back and a broad stripe on each side. Between the center
and each side stripe are two rows of alternating black spots. A dark
line separating the yellow side stripe from the belly is not particularly
bold as it is in the ribbon snake. Background
color is usually brown or black, but may be somewhat green or reddish.
Stripes may be tan, yellow or orange. A garter snake will occasionally
appear more checkered than striped. The scales are keeled and the belly is yellow or pale green.
Garter snakes generally mate after emerging from hibernation in March or April.
Females give birth to 12-40 young anytime from July through October.
Garter snakes occupy a variety of habitats including pond and stream edges,
wetlands, forests, fields, rocky hillsides and residential areas. They
are often observed as they bask on rocks, wood piles, stone walls, hedges
and swimming pool decks. Although they feed on a variety of small animals,
garter snakes' primary prey are earthworms and amphibians. Their saliva
appears to be toxic to amphibians and other small animals and a bite
may produce swelling or a burning rash in some people. Although garter
snakes may or may not bite if handled, most individuals secrete a foul-smelling
fluid from anal glands when alarmed. Occasionally, garter snakes make
their way into basements, a situation that appears to be most common
in spring or autumn.
More Information on Garter Snakes
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