Identification

The common garter snake is extremely variable in appearance, both in size and color. Adults range 18 to 54 inches in length. It has three light stripes (located on the midline and each side) on a black, brown or olive background. The lateral (side) stripes are only on the 2nd and 3rd scale rows. The stripes and belly may be yellow, yellow-green, bluish, brown, or white in color. Two subspecies are found in Indiana, the Eastern Garter Snake, T. s. sirtalis, and the Chicago Garter Snake, T. s. semifasciatus. The Chicago Garter Snake is distinguished by having its light side stripes interrupted by dark vertical markings towards the head. Similar species include: Butler’s Garter Snake, Plains Garter Snake, Eastern Ribbon Snake, Western Ribbon Snake

 

Distribution and Status

The Eastern Garter Snake is found throughout the state, while the Chicago Garter Snake occurs primarily in the northwest corner of Indiana (Porter County). Both species are abundant within their respect ranges.

 

Ecology: While the common garter snake occurs in a variety of habitats, they prefer moist, grassy areas near water. Earthworms are its primary prey, but they also eat other invertebrates and small amphibians.

 

 

 

Bruce Kingsbury, Director

Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management

Science Building

Indiana-Purdue University

2101 East Coliseum Blvd.

Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499

herps@ipfw.edu