Description
The Northwestern Garter Snake varies in colour from
brown, greenish, bluish or black, but it usually has a distinct
red, orange or yellow stripe down the middle of the back. The
belly is is yellow or gray, often with red blotches. The
Northwestern Garter Snake can grow to over 60 cm in total length.
Confusing Species
There are two other garter snakes found in BC. The Western Terrestrial Garter Snake has a yellow
or brown stripe down the back, but has small black blotches on the
back and sides. The Common Garter Snake
can be quite similar to the Northwestern Garter Snake. The Common
Garter snake grows to a much larger size and is more apt to be
black in background colour. Its side stripes are confined to the
second and third scale rows.
Distribution
The Northwestern Garter Snake is limited to southern
coastal British Columbia and most of Vancouver Island. To the
south it is also limited to the coast, south to northern
California.
Habitat
Northwestern Garter Snakes occur in a variety of
habitats, but are generally associated with water. They are rarely
found far from dense thickets.
Reproduction
Breeding occurs either in the spring or fall. As in
all garter snakes, females no not lay eggs but give birth to their
young. From 3-15 young are born during the summer. The young are
15-18 cm in total length at birth.
Natural history
The Northwestern Garter Snake eats a wide variety of
animals including slugs, earthworms, fish, frogs and toads, small
snakes, small mammals and birds. It is most active on sunny days.
When approached it often moves quickly into the safety of thick
vegetation.
Conservation Concerns
This species is relatively common where it occurs in BC
and is considered to be not at risk.
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