garter snake care - Noah's Ark Pets
Common Name: Garter Snakes
Scientific Name: Thamnophis species
Adult length: about three feet with a very narrow girth
Garter snakes are one of the most common of snakes. They are found in a variety of habitats.
Varying according to species, garters are generally striped against a plain or checkered
background color. Often delicately or subtly colored, even those with vivid red or yellow
stripes or yellow ventral scales are quick to blend in with their background in the wild.
Living between 3 to 10 years in captivity, these snakes generally do not grow to any great
size. Garter snakes may bite or musk when first acquired, but they will tame down quickly
with handling.
Captive Enclosure:
An adult garter snake may be kept in a 10 gallon aquarium. Provide logs and rocks for
climbing and basking. Provide hiding spots on warm and cool sides of the enclosure. You may
use reptile bark mixed with reptile soil mixes, shredded coconut husks or reptile carpet as
substrates. Change the substrate should it become soaked. Garter snakes are prone to diseases
such as scale rot or blisters if their substrate is not kept dry.
Lighting:
UVB emitting full spectrum lighting is optional for snakes. However it may prove to be
beneficial to the long term care of your pet reptile. The light should be positioned less
than 18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light, and air
circulation, therefore it should never be used as a top for the enclosure. A 12- hour
day/ night lighting cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best
way to ensure that the proper amount of light is received.
Temperature:
Maintain a temperature range of 72-88 F with a basking area of 88 F. There are several methods
for establishing the proper temperature range for your reptile. Using spotlights of variable
wattage incandescent bulbs on the outside of the enclosure, and under tank heaters or any
combination of these. When using spotlights for 24 hour heat use red, night bulbs or a ceramic
heating element to maintain day / night light cycle. Never place lights inside the enclosure
where the reptile could come in contact with them and get burned. Use a thermometer to ensure
proper temperature range is maintained.
Water:
Fresh de-chlorinated water must be available at all times. Garter snakes like to splash in their
water dishes. To avoid excessive moisture in the cage, use a large bowl only half full. Change
water daily or if it becomes dirty.
Food: Garter snakes eat frogs, worms and fish in the wild. Feed your pet feeder fish, worms and
crickets dusted with some vitamin and calcium supplementation. Sand eels and Lance fish may also
be offered (placed in shallow bowls of water); they will often encourage a reluctant eater.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
