Checkered Garter Snake

Looks how to spot one

scales

A slender snake with keeled dorsal scales. The back is olive, brown, grey or tan with a bold black checkerboard pattern. A pale yellow or orange stripe runs down the spine, with a lighter stripe on each side. The belly is cream to light grey, usually unmarked. The head has a pale crescent behind each eye, and the tongue is bright red with a black tip.321

Personality what they are like

Generally calm and easy to handle. Wild-caught individuals may musk or bite at first but usually tame down within a few days. Some individuals can be shy and jumpy, but overall they are considered one of the most docile garter snakes.324

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate. They are active during the day and sometimes at night in hot weather. Provide a thermal gradient of 25-30 °C for activity, with a cooler area. They hibernate from October to March if kept at natural seasonal temperatures.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low maintenance. Provide a clean enclosure with a water bowl large enough for soaking. Spot clean regularly. A humidity level that keeps the substrate slightly damp in one area helps with shedding. No special grooming needed.31

Home where they are happiest

A secure vivarium with a warm side (around 30 °C) and a cool side (around 22 °C). Provide hiding spots, branches for climbing, and a water dish. Substrate can be aspen shavings or reptile bark. They are good escape artists, so a tight lid is essential. In some US states a permit or hunting license may be required to keep native-caught individuals.321

Food basics what goes in the bowl

In the wild they eat frogs, toads, tadpoles, fish, earthworms, slugs, and small rodents. In captivity they can be trained to accept thawed mice or fish fillets. Juveniles prefer earthworms. Feed every 5-7 days for adults, more often for young. They can be fussy eaters and may occasionally refuse food.314

Company who they like around

Solitary. Do not house together as they may cannibalise each other. They are not social and do not need company. Handling should be gentle and infrequent to avoid stress.4

The story where it all began

The checkered garter snake has been kept as a pet for many decades and is considered one of the best garter snakes for beginners. It was first described scientifically in 1853 by Baird and Girard. It is frequently bred in captivity, and an albino colour morph is popular. Its docile nature and willingness to eat mice make it a favourite among reptile keepers.354

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Least Concern (2013 assessment)2

Popularity Common in the exotic pet trade, especially in the United States.31