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Probably the most commonly seen snake in the Algonquin Highlands, the Garter Snake is quite distinguishable. It has three stripes of yellow (sometimes an orange-red colour in the Algonquin region) on a dark coloured body. Occasionally between the stripes are altering black dots which gives the snake a checkered pattern. Colour and pattern vary from snake to snake. They have keeled scales. They typically are 45-66 cm in length. Garter Snakes mate early spring and fall and have 12-40 live babies in each litter.
Garter Snakes feed on earthworms and amphibians mostly but, because of its wide geographic range, its diet cannot be too restricted. Therefore it will also eat mice, small birds and fish. It has adapted to just about any type of terrain, as you can find Garter Snakes by bogs and marshes, rocky hills and sandy fields. They are, like any animal, an important part of the food chain as many larger birds and mammals depend on them for food.
Although the Garter Snake is non-venomous it will try to defend itself if it is scared. It will bite humans and may leave the area feeling irritated. They will also secrete a foul smell from their anal glands when alarmed.
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COMMON GARTER SNAKE
(Family Colubridae)
Thamnophis sirtalis
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