Eastern Garter Snake

Description:

Probably the most commonly encountered snake. Named after the fancy striped garters historically worn by men, they are usually dark in colour with three yellowish stripes from head to tail, though the pattern may be faint. Reddish-orange markings along the sides are common. Extreme variations occur, such as melanism- an all black form found in some isolated populations.

Habitat:

Garter snakes are widespread throughout North America. The common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), is the only species of snake to be found in Alaska, and is one of the northernmost species of snake in the world, possibly second only to the Crossed Viper, Vipera berus. The genus is so far ranging due to its unparticular diet and adaptability to different biomes and landforms, with varying proximity to water. However, in the western part of North America, these snakes are more water loving than in the eastern portion. Northern populations hibernate in larger groups than southern ones.

Notes:

Conservation status Despite the decline in their population from collection as pets (especially in the more northerly regions in which large groups are collected at hibernation), pollution of aquatic areas, and introduction of [[bullfrogs as prey , this is still a very commonly found snake. The garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia) however, is an endangered subspecies and has been on the endangered list since 1969. Predation by crawfish has also been responsible for the decline of the narrow head garter snake .