Here at the community library, we love reptiles of all types! With the weather warming up we will likely see more reptiles slithering about! Garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are commonly found in various habitats, including the suburban and rural areas of Long Island, New York. These adaptable creatures thrive in moist environments such as meadows, marshes, and woodlands. They are more active during the spring and summer months and can be spotted in backyards, gardens, and even along the edges of ponds and streams. Garter snakes tend to favor areas with tall grass and moderate moisture, providing ample hunting and shelter opportunities. 

Before elastic was developed, men wore garters to keep their socks from falling down. Sometimes gayly decorated with stripes, their “garters” seemed an apt description for these snakes whose distinctive yellow or greenish stripes run along their bodies, providing camouflage against predators. On Long Island, these snakes typically range from 18 to 26 inches, making them relatively small. They are also considered thinner-bodied snakes. They feed on a diverse diet of small animals, including insects, earthworms, amphibians, and even small fish. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, they are not dangerous to humans; they serve as beneficial creatures by controlling pest populations. 

So, don’t be afraid!  Garter snakes don’t bite.  The temperament of garter snakes is generally passive, and they will often try to escape when confronted with potential threats. However, if they feel cornered, they may defend themselves by “musking” on the considered threat. A garters musk is a smelly substance that snakes produce to deter the perceived predator from eating them.  

Garter snakes are Viviparous, which simply means that females give birth to live young instead of laying eggs. Fertilization occurs internally, and the developing embryos grow inside the mother’s body, nourished by a yolk sac or placenta-like structure. Female garter snakes typically give birth in late summer or early fall, with litters ranging from 10 to 40 offspring, depending on the female’s size and condition. The newborn snakes are independent from the moment of birth and are immediately able to hunt small prey such as insects and worms. 

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Coming soon!  Our next Reptile of the Month will be the Black Racer.