Their primary dangers include habitat destruction and pollution to the waterways that they inhabit. Unfortunately, humans do pose a risk to these snakes. Garter Snake and Human InteractionĪs discussed above, these reptiles are not dangerous to humans in any way. This mild toxin makes it easier for them to swallow their prey. These snakes actually do have incredibly mild venom, but it is not dangerous to humans in any way. However, recent research has shown us that is not the case. Venomįor years, researchers believed that these snakes did not have venom. They are immune to the toxins of most frogs and toads.

Some common prey items include frogs, frog eggs, small fish, salamanders, lizards, and small mammals.

Smaller snakes feed on smaller prey, while larger snakes can take on larger animals. Their prey varies based on where they live and how large they are. These snakes are carnivores, which means that they eat other animals. Some live across huge expanses while others live in just a small region or a single state. However, they are absent from northern Canada in the polar regions, and a portion of the southwestern United States.Įach species has its own unique distribution and range. They range from Canada to the border of South America. The various species live across most of North America and into Central America. Many species also range into areas near human activity, like farms, pastures, parks, gardens, and more. Some of the different ecosystems that they live in include wetlands, marshes, swamps, woodlands, grasslands, forests, and more. Riparian areas are those that lie in close proximity to a water source like a lake, pond, swamp, or wetland. However, all of the various species prefer riparian areas. This expansive group of snakes occupies a wide variety of habitats. Throughout its range, researchers have identified 13 genetically unique subspecies! This species is also the state reptile of Massachusetts.

Common Garter Snake – As you might guess, this species is widespread and abundant across a vast expanse of North America.

Humans destroy the wetlands that these snakes live in, and pollute the waters that they hunt in. The IUCN lists the species as Vulnerable.

Giant Garter Snake – The largest of the 35-odd species, this snake is in decline.These snakes even use their tongues as a lure to capture fish! They flee to the water when threatened, and often hunt in the water as well. Aquatic Garter Snake – Like their name suggests, this species has quite the affinity for water.Researchers recognize six unique subspecies of western ribbon snake! They have bright yellow, green, orange, and/or red stripes. Western Ribbon Snake – This species, and its subspecies, sport bright coloration.Learn more about some individual species below. You can find a wide variety of different Garter Snakes throughout North America. Adults range in size from about one foot long to nearly five feet in length.

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