Common Garter Snake
Thamnophis sirtalis
Adult common garter snakes live in meadows, gardens, marsh margins, woodland edges, and streamside habitats across much of North America. They actively search for earthworms, amphibians, small fish, leeches, and other small prey, often hunting near water or in thick vegetation. Their defense relies on fleeing, flattening the body, hissing, biting, and releasing a strong-smelling musk. They have mildly toxic saliva and some populations can tolerate and store toxins from rough-skinned newts they eat.
- Type
- Fang / Venom
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- Common Garter Snake Neonate
- Common Garter Snake