The colder weather and accompanying snow this past week has slowed down the activity of cold-blooded creatures. This little garter snake was found cuddled up under a rock in the mint garden.
It wasn’t moving very quickly, so I was able to pick it up and place it in a container for closer observation. Over the years, my sons captured numerous snakes under the rocks in our yard. We’ve also come across garter snakes in the woods and among the wild rose bushes. Last year I almost stepped on one that was sunning itself on the front steps.
Garter snakes are known to make good pets. One year, we kept a large garter in a terrarium over the summer months. They do give off a scent after a period in captivity so it was eventually released back into the wild.
Garter snakes are ovoviviparous, meaning that a mother carries the eggs internally but offspring emerge live with no sign of the shell at birth. Garters are independent of their mothers as soon as they’re born. One of my neighbors would frequently dig into a mass of newly born garters while working in her garden. In northern areas, garters will also congregate in a massive ball with other snakes prior to hibernation.
Garters are mildly venomous. My youngest son was bitten by them as a boy with no adverse effects.
These snakes are the most widely distributed reptiles in North America, likely due to the fact that they’re not picky eaters. Worms, amphibians, mice, young birds, bugs, fish and eggs are all acceptable fare.
So pretty! I love catching snakes and letting them go. They are so beautiful.
This is fascinating! I’ve never seen a garter snake before, and I’m amazed that you could pick it up and look at it more closely. I’m glad you didn’t get bitten, Amy.
I’ve always liked these little guys! I don’t like when they’re unexpected and scare me, but after I catch my breath – I love watching them. You had snow last week? It was cold here but no snow – thank goodness! Still too cold to go play in the dirt though….
That one looks a lot different than the dark garter snakes that used to winter in my woodpile. I got used to those, but never really enjoyed them. I’m glad I haven’t dug into a nest. Oh dear.
Well I wouldn’t say no adverse effects…
Our office is surrounded by agricultural lands (now declared as industrial area). So whoever opens the shop makes a survey to ensure there are no snakes in any corner 🙂
And only a fortnight ago boss saw an eagle grab a snake and take off…but it was startled when it saw him and dropped its catch.
We have those little guys too! It’s our only snake in these parts. The Rubber Tree Boa lives in on the Olympic Peninsula.
I love these snakes. We used to have them all the time growing up. I haven’t seen any at our current house though. Thanks for sharing. They are awfully cute.
Pamela and Jessica, snakes can indeed be beautiful.
Reggie, I used a small smooth stick to pick it up. I don’t usually handle snakes.
Cindy, they always startle me at first too. It’s their movement that can creep me out at times. It’s warmed up here again so they’ll be on the move…
Jeremiah, without clinical diagnosis, any ‘adverse effects’ on your brother from snake bites are only speculative on your part. Still, nothing a couple glasses of water wouldn’t cure 😉
Swaps, I wonder if employees at your workplace are reluctant to be the first to arrive in the morning. Years ago I saw a hawk flying with a snake in its talons. It was pretty cool to see. An eagle doing the same would be quite the sight.
Dawn, we have several types of snakes in Nova Scotia. We even have a bright lime green one that looks like it belongs in a rainforest.
Sweet! 🙂
(don’t tell my mum – a staunch snakeophobe – I said that)
Pepsoid, I hope you weren’t one of those little boys who used to try to sneak frogs and snakes into the house. That sort of thing can really freak out a mum, me included.
Of course not, Flan! 😉
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