Coast Garter Snake

Thamnophis elegans terrestris

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

This is another of the primarily terrestrial garter snakes, but it, too, is often found in the proximity of a water source. Adult at 30-36”. The dorsal stripe is usually a bright yellow. The lateral stripes may be reddish and obscure or yellow and very visible, The sides between the dorsal and the lateral stripes may be red or olive and there are 2 rows of alternating dark spots. Adult size is 30-36”. Ovoviviparous. Neonates are more brightly patterned than the adults. Scales keeled. Found in or near water.

 

Unique Features:

The dorsal stripe is usually a bright yellow. The lateral stripes may be reddish and obscure or yellow and very visible. The sides between the dorsal and the lateral stripes may be red or olive.

 

Habitat and Diet:

More terrestrial than many other garter snake species but still is often found near a water source. Prey, worms and slugs as well as amphibians, and fish. Occasionally eats nestling rodents or birds

 

Geographic Range:

CA, OR