ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Eastern Gartersnake

 Eastern Gartersnake

eastern gartersnake
The Eastern gartersnake is one of the three gartersnakes in Ohio. It is the most abundant snake in Ohio. It is recognized by its pattern of three yellow stripes on a black or brown body. It can be found in almost every habitat type in the state.

The gartersnake derives its name from the resemblance of its stripes to old-fashioned sock garters.

Eastern Gartersnake
Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis

At-a-Glance

• Mating: Polygamous

• Peak Breeding Activity: March and April

• Gestation Period: 90-100 days; young born July-October

• Litter Size: 10-40 young snakes; 20 average

• Young are Born: Able to care for themselves; they receive no parental care and disperse shortly after birth

• Number of Litters per Year: One

• Migration Patterns: Does not migrate; year round resident

• Feeding Periods: During daylight hours; feeding can depend on appropriate weather conditions.

• Typical Foods: Earthworms and amphibians

• Length: 18-26 inches

• Ohio Status: Species of Concern 
Description
The pattern can vary, but the Eastern gartersnake is marked with a pattern of three light stripes on a dark body. One narrow stripe runs down the center of the snake's back combined with a broad stripe on each side. The stripes are usually yellow, but can be shades of blue, green, or brown. Between the center and each of the side stripes are two rows of alternating black spots. The scales of the Eastern gartersnake are keeled (have ridges) and the snake's belly is yellow or pale green.

Habitat and Habits
The Eastern gartersnake occupies a variety of habitats including pond and stream edges, wetlands, forests, fields, rocky hillsides, and residential areas. They are often seen basking on wood piles, stone walls, hedges, and rocks.

The saliva of the Eastern gartersnake appears to be toxic to amphibians and other small animals and a bite may produce swelling or a rash in some people. The Eastern gartersnake eats its prey alive and whole.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Eastern gartersnake young emerge alive from the body of the mother. Many other speices of snakes lay eggs from which the young hatch. During gestation, each young snake is protected and nurtured in a thin sac-like membrane that contains a yolk. Young emerge from the mother anytime between July and October. The size and number of young depend on the age, size and condition of the female.