Garter snakes are a type of non-venomous snake found in North America. They are popular pets, thanks to their colorful markings and relatively easy care requirements. But before you bring a garter snake home, it's important to do your research and make sure you're prepared to provide your new pet with the proper care.

Can You Keep Garter Snakes as Pets?

Temperament and Behavior

Garter snakes are generally shy and gentle snakes. They are not aggressive towards humans and will usually flee if they feel threatened. However, some garter snakes may be more defensive than others, so it's important to handle your snake with care, especially when it is young.

Garter snakes are active during the day and night. They spend most of their time basking in the sun or hiding in vegetation. They are good swimmers and can often be found near water sources.

Lifespan

Garter snakes have a relatively long lifespan for a snake. They can live for up to 10 years in captivity, although some individuals may live for even longer.

Size

Garter snakes range in size from 2 to 4 feet long. The largest garter snake species is the eastern garter snake, which can grow to be over 5 feet long.

Diet

Garter snakes are carnivorous and eat a variety of small animals, including rodents, frogs, fish, and earthworms. They typically hunt at night, using their keen sense of smell to locate prey.

Habitat

Garter snakes are found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, forests, and wetlands. They prefer areas with access to water, such as streams, ponds, or lakes.

Care

Garter snakes require a specific type of care in order to thrive in captivity. Here are some of the things you need to know about caring for a garter snake:

Enclosure: Garter snakes should be kept in a secure enclosure that is at least 10 gallons in size. The enclosure should have a tight-fitting lid to prevent the snake from escaping.

Substrate: The substrate, or bedding, in the enclosure should be a mixture of peat moss and coconut fiber. This will help to maintain the humidity in the enclosure and provide a place for the snake to burrow.

Temperature: Garter snakes need a warm environment to thrive. The temperature in the enclosure should be between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

Humidity: Garter snakes need a moderate level of humidity in the enclosure. The humidity should be between 40 and 60 percent. You can increase the humidity in the enclosure by misting it with water or by using a humidifier.

Water: Garter snakes need access to fresh water at all times. The water bowl should be large enough for the snake to soak in, and it should be cleaned and refilled daily.

Food: Garter snakes should be fed a diet of live prey, such as rodents, frogs, and earthworms. The prey should be no larger than the snake's head. Young garter snakes should be fed every day, while adult garter snakes can be fed every other day or every three days.

Handling: Garter snakes are not typically aggressive towards humans, but they can bite if they feel threatened. It's important to handle your snake with care, especially when it is young. Avoid making sudden movements or handling the snake too much.