Description
This is a long slender snake reaching up to a metre in
total length. It has a bright yellow or orange stripe down the
back, and a yellow or orange and blackish checkerboard pattern on
the side. A paler cream or yellow side stripe follows the third
and fourth scale rows and below this is a row of black spots.
Confusing Species
Other striped snakes found within its range are the Common Garter Snake and the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake. Both of
these species have the side stripe confined to the second and third
scale rows so that it appears lower on the body. In the Western
Terrestrial Garter Snake both top and side stripes are the same
colour.
Distribution
In Canada the Plains Garter Snake is found in southern
Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. In the US it is distributed
through the Great Plains as far south as New Mexico.
Habitat
The Plains Garter Snake is often found in the vicinity
of ponds, lakes, streams and marshes within prairie landscapes.
Reproduction
Like other Garter Snakes, the Plains Garter is
live-bearing rather than egg-laying. From 5-40 young are usually
born in mid to late summer although up to 92 have been produced
from a single litter. Young may be up to 19 cm total length.
Natural history
The Plains Garter Snake feeds on fish, amphibians,
small mammals, worms and insects. It commonly hunts along the edge
of water and may even swim to escape predators or hunt prey. It
hibernates in rock piles or mammal burrows. When handled it may
spray feces and a foul smelling musk in an attempt to escape.
Conservation Concerns
This species is considered common within its range.
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