Reptiles and Amphibians of the Table Rocks

Valley Garter Snake

Valley Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

Dr. Robin Lawson
© 1999 California Academy of Sciences

I can have many different stripe patterns. The stripes on my back and side stripes are usually well defined.

I live near water, in wet meadows, or damp woodlands. I am active during the day and most frequently seen amid moist vegetation where I search for frogs, toads, salamanders, and earthworms. Occasionally I take small fish and mice. During cold periods, I hibernate in great numbers in community dens. I can be ill-tempered when first captured, I will bite or expel musk, but I tame quickly and soon become docile.

While most snakes lay eggs, I give birth to live young.

Caution: If handled, bites and expels musk and feces.

Return to Reptiles and Amphibians of the Table Rocks