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
Thamnophis sirtalis
