Common Gartersnake

Description:

Extremly variable across Canada; colour tends to be dark; 3 yellow strips down back and sides; side stripes limited to second and third scale rows. Length 85cm -1m (33-39"). Eats frogs, toads, salamanders, small fishes, mice and earthworms.

Habitat:

Forests, fields and urban areas; most commonly near wetlands.

Notes:

Breeds usually in spring, but occasionally in fall; female gives birth to 10-30 live young around June; young measure 13-23cm (5-9"); young reach sexual maturity in 2-3 years.