The common garter snake is most often found around aquatic habitats, such as ponds, freshwater wetlands and riparian areas. If threatened, they will often flee into the water where they are excellent swimmers.

Can common garter snakes swim?

Garter snakes can swim but are not agile climbers; they inhabit meadows, marshes, ditches and damp woods, staying close to the ground looking for insects, frogs, salamanders, fish and tadpoles.

How long can a garter snake stay underwater?

Who do aquatic garter snakes live with? These garter snakes live in the water, so it is not surprising that they're solitary. What is shocking though is how much time these guys spend underwater. These creatures can stay submerged for up to four hours at a time and never need to surface for air.

Can garter snakes hurt you?

A garter snake can bite, although it is unlikely for them to bite humans unless threatened or provoked. ... While their bite is considered non-venomous, a person bitten by garter snake bite should wash the bitten area thoroughly. Their bite can cause minor swelling and itchiness.

What is the difference between a garden snake and a garter snake?

There is no difference between a garter snake and a garden snake. Both names refer to the same species, the Thamnophis sirtalis, which is the most common non-venomous reptile in North America. While they vary in color, garter snakes are easily recognizable for 3 lines that run through their bodies.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF A GARTER SNAKE

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How can you tell if its a garter snake?

Garter Snake Species Identification

Most have three stripes running the length of their bodies, though some snakes are a solid color. The stripes may be yellow, white, green or blue. The chin and belly of the snake usually match the stripes in color.

Can all snakes swim?

John Maerz, Professor of Vertebrate Ecology at the University of Georgia, told Reuters that all snakes can swim, and most swim below the water, or partially submerged.

How long do garter snakes live?

The life span of an average common garter snake can range from four to five years. However, they can live up to 10 years in captivity.

Do garter snakes live alone?

While garter snakes are generally solitary creatures, they generally hibernate in large numbers to prevent heat loss and keep their bodies warm.

Will a garter snake bite a dog?

Garter snakes prefer to escape when threatened by a predator, such as your dog, but they will bite if cornered. These snakes are considered mildly venomous. ... Your pup may experience some irritation if he is bitten, but it is unlikely to be serious.

Are garter snakes good for your yard?

Garter snakes are a gardener's friend! Harmless to humans, they eat all the pests that wreak havoc in your garden. Learn more about the shy but helpful gardening helper who just wants to live peacefully in harmony with you—and eat your slugs!

Why do garter snakes stink?

It was recently discovered that the saliva of a garter snake contains a very mild neurotoxin. ... They are the only species of snake in Alaska. When threatened, they release a foul smelling musk. It's not nearly as bad as the musk released by a northern water snake, but it will get your attention.

Can garter snakes be pets?

While garter snakes are abundant in the wild, especially around bodies of water, such as lakes and streams, in Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Central America, these wild animals should not be kept as pets, as they are illegal to take from their natural habitats in most locales.

Can garter snakes survive underwater?

Although garter snakes are found across the United States, aquatic garter snakes are only found in the coastal regions of California north of Santa Barbara, and the southern Oregon coast. ... In shallow water, aquatic garter snakes will encircle prey with their body and then strike as they try to escape.

Can snakes bite underwater?

Snakes can bite you underwater, but usually only if they're provoked or if they feel threatened. ... As recommended by the University of Florida Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, always leave snakes alone if you come across one in the water or on land.

How long can a snake stay underwater?

While most sea snakes surface every 30 minutes to breathe, some true sea snakes can stay underwater for up to eight hours. That's because these snakes can actually absorb up to 33% of the oxygen they need through their skin. They can also get rid of 90% of their carbon dioxide in the same manner.

Do garter snakes like to be held?

Many garter snakes, particularly if they are captive bred, are gentle and do not mind being handled, and handling them is simply a matter of picking them up and letting them explore your hands. If you have experience handling other snakes, it's important to remember that garter snakes are not constrictors.

Can garter snakes climb walls?

But can garter snakes climb walls to enter homes? Yes, they can. ... Garter snakes are agile reptiles who can move the weight of their bodies across elevated platforms. While the species is mainly terrestrial, if they smell rats scurrying around your basement or other pests, they will find a way to reach their prey.

What smells do snakes hate?

Snakes will often eat insects, amphibians, and other reptiles, so keeping them at bay is key. What scents do snakes dislike? There are many scents snakes don't like including smoke, cinnamon, cloves, onions, garlic, and lime. You can use oils or sprays containing these fragrances or grow plants featuring these scents.

Where do garter snakes go in the winter time?

To survive the winter, garter snakes will find a safe and snug place underground. They may look for a natural cavity or use a rodent burrow. They also find hibernation areas under rock piles or stumps. Sometimes, they may even look for warm places inside structures and have been found in basements.

How long are garter snakes pregnant?

Common garter snakes are ovoviviparous (bearing live young). The young are incubated in the lower abdomen, about half way down from the snake's body. Gestation is usually two to three months. Most females in the northern parts of their range give birth to from 4 to 80 young between late July and October.

How do you pick up a garter snake?

Pick up the snake gently.

1. Use a net or forked stick to capture the garter snake. You can trap them underneath until they finish thrashing and are subdued.
2. Try catching a garter snake by the tip of its tail. ...
3. Give garter snakes plenty of support. ...
4. Don't restrict garter snakes' movement. ...
5. Garter snakes may musk on you.

How do you tell if a snake in the water is poisonous?

THICK, HEAVY BODIES: Venomous Water Moccasins have bodies that are VERY thick and heavy for their length, and short, thick tails. A harmless snake the same length would be much more slender and would have a much longer, thinner tail (see below).

Do snakes drown in water?

Snakes CAN drown. Also, be sure the water is not too cold or too hot, as this can also harm the snake. Snakes can drown, but usually only if they are trapped under water.