When full grown, garter snakes can be up to 3 feet in length. Common garter snakes have been recorded in lengths greater than 4 feet. At birth, most garter snakes are less than 6 inches long, but as they mature they can grow to more than 8 inches. Garters are found throughout the United States and Canada.
They are also found in Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Garters can be distinguished from other snakes by their dark coloration, which can range from brown to black, and by the fact that they tend to be larger than most other snake species.
Table of Contents
Is a garter snake aggressive?
Garter snakes are non-venomous, but can be fairly aggressive and will readily strike and bite, sometimes causing an allergic reaction in humans. They can cause anaphylactic shock and death if they are handled or attacked. Gartersnakes are found throughout the United States and Canada. They are also found in Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Do garter snakes bite humans?
While most species are classified as harmless (non-venomous), their bite can cause minor swelling or itching in humans, and anyone bitten by a garter snake should clean the bite thoroughly. It is not a cause for concern, but should be treated that way.
Can a garter snake hurt you?
Though garter snakes will use their sharp teeth to catch prey, it’s very unlikely these pests will choose to bite a human. They only attack humans when they are provoked or threatened. Just before lashing out at their prey, many garter snakes will release a foul-smelling musk. Gartersnakes are not venomous, but they can be very irritating to the skin and mucous membranes of humans and other animals. If bitten, seek medical attention immediately.
How long do garter snakes stay in one place?
Unless their den is on your property. In contrast, harmless garter snakes and ringneck snakes will often burrow underground to escape the cold. They tend to stay in the same area. Gartersnakes are not venomous, but they can be very irritating to the eyes and skin. If you are bitten, seek medical attention immediately.
Can a garter snake hurt a dog?
Their venom does not affect humans, but amphibians and small animals may experience minor toxicity from a garter snake bite. Your pup may experience some irritation if he is bitten, but it is unlikely to be serious. The bad-smelling fluid from the snake’s mouth is its other defense. Garter snakes are not venomous to humans. However, if you are bitten by one, you should seek medical attention immediately.
What eats a garter snake?
Hawks, crows, egrets, herons, cranes, raccoons, otter and other snake species will eat garter snakes, with even shrews and frog eating them. Gartersnake venom can cause severe pain and even death, so it’s best to keep them away from children and pets.
What do garter snakes do in the winter?
They can be found basking on rocks during the mild winter season. Common garter snakes can be found in natural burrows, under rock crevices, and in hollow logs. Snakes are active during the day and sleep at night. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
During the night, they remain motionless in a burrow or crevice until morning, when they emerge and begin to move around in search of food. The snake may move from hiding to hiding several times during a 24-hour period, depending on the time of day, temperature, and the availability of prey. Hibernation can last for up to three months.
Do garter snakes come out at night?
Garter snakes are incredibly active. They come out both night and day. They climb shrubs, vines, and trees in search of food, but they are also ground-dwellers. Garters are active during the day and sleep at night.
During the daytime, they are mostly active in the water, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, insects, and other small invertebrates. In addition to eating these small animals, the garter snake is also a predator of birds and mammals. It is the only snake in North America that feeds exclusively on birds.
