Photo of Garter Snake

Eastern Garter Snake


Scientific Name:

The scientific name for an Eastern Garter Snake is Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis

Where they're located in New Jersey: 

Eastern Garter Snakes can be found throughout the state

Venomous:

No, Eastern Garter Snakes are non-venomous

Placement on Endangerment Scale: 

Least Concern (LC)

Temperament:

Eastern Garter Snakes are fast, skittish snakes that will slither away quickly at the sight of a predator. If attempted to be held or attacked by humans or other animals, the snake will bite and musk to get away.

Physical characteristics:

The color of Eastern Garter Snakes varies from olive to brown to black and typically they have three stripes on their back, one in the middle and one on each side. They can grow to be 18-26 inches in length.

Live or egg birth:

Eastern Garter Snakes have live births

Preferred habitat:

Water, woods, fields, and suburban neighborhoods