Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

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Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

July 19, 2010; Barton, Vermont

We had quite the year for snakes. We had two species coming out of the old granite foundation of the house, and they were quite large. I like this different perspective for a photograph of a snake. I find it quite mesmerizing. The cats have not been catching any of the snakes this year, which is a good thing. Last summer, in New Hampshire, Buddy was bit in the eye by a garter snake and went blind in that eye for quite a long time. He still has occasional problems with his vision. Below is a photograph that shows how long this snake was.

July 20, 2010; Barton, Vermont

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Common Garter Snake Portrait

Thamnophis sirtalis

We had snake babies this summer. They all live in the original granite foundation under the main house. The mother snake is huge. I don't think this is the mother snake because we have a bigger one. But I managed to get a good shot of the head of this beauty when she stuck her head out from the foundation. There are also red-bellied snakes living there (photos coming soon).

I just learned tonight that these harmless to people and pets garter snakes (also called garden snakes) are the only snake in Alaska. Fascinating!

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Common Garter Snake

We came home to find Buddy the Cat being all excited with this snake. Since the snake was trying to bite Buddy (and even though garter snakes are not poisonous, they can inflict a hefty vet bill) we persuaded Buddy to not injure the snake. Buddy stood by, watching, while I photographed the encounter.

NH Conservation Status: Not listed
State Rank Status: Widespread and secure
Distribution: Throughout NH
Description: A small striped snake measuring 18-26 inches. Has variable color patterns but typically has 2-3 yellow, brownish, or greenish stripes running vertically down the top and sides of the snake. May also have variable black spots between the stripes.
Commonly Confused Species: Eastern ribbon snake; Brown snake
Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats including woodlands, hillsides, wetlands, backyards, and even urban areas. Will use a variety of cover objects for shelter including rocks, logs, stumps and other debris such as trash piles and sheet metal.
Life History: Breeding may occur in spring or fall. Ten to 40 live young are born from July to September. Hibernation may be solitary or communal in rock crevices, holes, stumps, or foundations.
Conservation Threats: Species is secure

source: www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/Nongame/snakes/profile_...

Thamnophis sirtalis

Common Garter Snake Photograph Set

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