Blue-striped Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis similis

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

Black or very dark brown with 3 stripes, the vertebral being yellow(ish) and the lateral stripes being pale to bright blue. Interstitial facial stripes present. Belly, blue. Ovoviviparous. Neonates similar to adults. Garter snakes in the eastern USA are less apt to consume nestling mammals than those of the American West. This subspecies preys primarily on frogs, toads, worms and an occasional salamander.

Unique Features:

Elliptical pupils and a lyres shaped marking on top of the head.

Habitat and Diet:

Pine woodlands to rocky slopes and slides. Prey includes birds, rodents, and lizards.