5 Reasons Why Garter Snakes Like Water So Much

Why do garter snakes like water?

Garter snakes are among the most widespread snakes in North America. They live in grassy forest areas, often near ponds, streams, or wetlands. Garter snakes like water because of the abundance of prey such as earthworms, frogs, fish, and many insects near water bodies. Water also helps garter snakes escape predators, and cool down in … Read more

Why Do Garter Snakes Shake And Bob Their Heads?

Why Do Garter Snakes Shake And Bob Their Heads?

Garter snakes are some of the most abundant snakes in North America. These snakes primarily inhabit grassy and forested areas, but often wander into people’s gardens and backyards. Garter snakes bob and shake their heads primarily to mimic the movement of grass or other vegetation in windy conditions. This behavior helps them blend more effectively … Read more

Why Do Garter Snakes Group Together?

Why Do Garter Snakes Group Together?

Garter snakes are medium-sized snakes easily recognizable by the distinctive stripes running lengthwise along their scales. They are one of the most common snakes in North America and can often be found in large groups, particularly at certain times of the year. Garter Snakes gather in groups for several reasons, including to retain body heat … Read more

How Long Do Garter Snakes Live?

How long do garter snakes live?

Garter snakes are capable of living longer lives than most people think. Their lifespan is influenced by several factors, but captive garter snakes typically live longer than those in the wild. Garter snakes typically live between 2 – 4 years in the wild – with some individuals living up to 10 years. In captivity, they … Read more

Do Garter Snakes Eat Mice?

Like all snakes, garter snakes are obligate carnivores, which means they only eat meat, and can not eat plants. While most garter snakes mainly eat small invertebrates, large adult garter snakes occasionally eat small or juvenile mice. Garter snakes often adapt to eating whatever prey they can find in their local area. They are very … Read more

How Do Garter Snakes Get In Your Basement?

How do garter snakes enter basements?

Garter snakes are medium-sized snakes easily recognizable by the distinctive stripes running lengthwise along their scales. They are usually found in forest areas but often wander into people’s backyards and basements. Garter snakes can not dig, so the only way they can enter basements is through open spaces. This could be through cracks or openings … Read more

Can Garter Snakes Climb Up Walls Or Stairs?

Can Garter Snakes Climb Up Walls Or Stairs?

Garter snakes are among the most widespread snakes in North America. They prefer to live in grassy forest areas, often near water – but sometimes wander into people’s backyards. Garter snakes can climb short walls, and even stairs, as long as they have gaps, rough surfaces, or small footholds to grab onto. Snakes do not … Read more

Do Garter Snakes Climb Trees?

Do garter snakes climb trees?

Garter snakes are among the most common snakes in North America. They are usually found in forest areas but can exploit many habitats. Although largely terrestrial, garter snakes occasionally climb low trees or shrubs for various reasons, such as hunting, basking in the sun, escaping predators, and avoiding dangers on the ground such as flooding. … Read more

Why Do Garter Snakes Smell Bad?

Why do Garter snakes smell and stink so bad?

Garter snakes are medium-sized snakes easily recognizable by the distinctive stripes running lengthwise along their scales. However, some individuals lack stripes. If a garter snake is threatened by a predator, it will release a foul-smelling, greasy fluid, called ‘musk’, from glands located near the base of the tail. This fluid not only smells bad but … Read more

Why Do Garter Snakes Enter Houses?

Why do garter snakes enter houses?

Garter snakes are among the most common snakes in North America. They are usually found in forest areas but often wander into people’s backyards and even enter homes. Garter snakes enter houses mainly in search of food, water, or protection from the elements. Sometimes, they may enter a house purely by accident, especially if doors … Read more