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Canadian Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Network - Réseau Canadien de Conservation des Amphibiens et des Reptiles
Thamnophis radix
Plains Garter Snake
Couleuvre des Plaines
Description
This is a long slender snake reaching up to a metre in total length. It has a bright yellow or orange stripe down the back, and a yellow or orange and blackish checkerboard pattern on the side. A paler cream or yellow side stripe follows the third and fourth scale rows and below this is a row of black spots.

Confusing Species
Other striped snakes found within its range are the Common Garter Snake and the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake. Both of these species have the side stripe confined to the second and third scale rows so that it appears lower on the body. In the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake both top and side stripes are the same colour.

Distribution
In Canada the Plains Garter Snake is found in southern Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. In the US it is distributed through the Great Plains as far south as New Mexico.

Habitat
The Plains Garter Snake is often found in the vicinity of ponds, lakes, streams and marshes within prairie landscapes.

Reproduction
Like other Garter Snakes, the Plains Garter is live-bearing rather than egg-laying. From 5-40 young are usually born in mid to late summer although up to 92 have been produced from a single litter. Young may be up to 19 cm total length.

Natural history
The Plains Garter Snake feeds on fish, amphibians, small mammals, worms and insects. It commonly hunts along the edge of water and may even swim to escape predators or hunt prey. It hibernates in rock piles or mammal burrows. When handled it may spray feces and a foul smelling musk in an attempt to escape.

Conservation Concerns
This species is considered common within its range.


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