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.
Table of Contents
Do garter snakes get 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.
Is it safe to pick up a garter snake?
Garter snakes are beneficial predators of rodents and insect pests. However, don’t pick it up. It may give you a small nip, but it is still a bite. As soon as you see a snake, you should be able to identify it.
Garter snake venom is a potent neurotoxin that causes paralysis and death within minutes of ingestion. It is also highly toxic to humans and other animals, and can be fatal if ingested in large enough quantities.
Should garter snakes be killed?
Because garter snakes can be helpful in our environment, we don’t recommend killing them if you spot them in your yard. You should mow your lawn for the same reason.
If you have a lawn mower, use it to mow the bushes. – without too much overgrowth, the snakes won’t be able to find a hiding place. This will kill any snakes that may be hiding in the weeds.
Be sure to let the water soak in for a few minutes before using it, as the spray can irritate the skin of gophers.
Will garter snakes bite if you pick them up?
If you pick one up, it may try to defend itself with a bite, but it is relatively harmless. It will struggle and emit a foul smell from its anal sphincter.
Are garter snakes afraid of humans?
Garter snakes are naturally afraid of people, so they will try to stay out of your way unless it’s unavoidable. Unless they are basking in the sun during the day, they will hide in the shade. Gartersnakes are not aggressive towards humans, but will bite if they feel threatened. If you are bitten by a garter snake, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Can a garter snake hurt a dog?
Their bite is harmless to humans and other large mammals because they have very small teeth. If your pet is the offending biter, or eats a garter snake, it’s a good idea to take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
What does it mean when you see a garter snake?
In some tribes, the garden snakes are symbols of jealousy or dishonesty, while in other tribes, they are a symbol of water. Garter snake symbolism is found in many cultures, including the Maya, Aztecs, Mayans, Incas, Chinese, Japanese, and Native Americans.
What time of day do garter snakes come out?
Common garter snakes are active most of the time during the day, but are active through a wider range of temperatures than most snakes. They can be found basking on rocks, logs, and crevices during the winter. Gartersnakes are nocturnal and spend most of their time in the dark.
During the daytime, they are most active at dusk and dawn, when they bask and bask. Garter snake activity peaks in late spring and early summer and declines in fall and winter.
