Are you tired of mistaking harmless garter snakes for dangerous garden snakes? Do you want to feel confident identifying these slithery reptiles on your next hike or outdoor adventure? Look no further!
In this blog post, we will guide you through the key differences between garter and garden snakes, equipping you with the knowledge to distinguish them in seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned herpetologist or just curious about these fascinating creatures, keep reading to learn how to tell the difference between a garter and a garden snake.
What Is a Garter Snake?
A garter snake is a common type of snake that is found in North America. They are named for the fact that they often have a stripe running down the length of their body, which resembles a garter belt. Garter snakes are generally harmless to humans and make good pets.
What Is a Garden Snake?
Garden snakes are also common in North America and can be mistaken for garter snakes. The main difference between the two is that garden snakes are typically smaller than garter snakes and do not have the stripe down their back. Garden snakes are also not as friendly as garter snakes and should not be handled unless you are experienced with handling snakes.
How To Tell the Difference Between Garter and Garden Snake?
If you’re lucky enough to spot a snake in your garden, it’s important to know whether it’s a garter or garden snake so you can take the appropriate precautions. Here are some tips on how to tell the difference:
- Garter snakes are typically longer than garden snakes, and their patterns are more distinct.
- If you can get a good look at the snake’s head, you’ll notice that garter snakes have triangular heads while garden snakes have rounder heads.
- Another way to tell the difference is by looking at their eyes. Garter snakes have vertical pupils, while garden snakes have round pupils.
- Garden snakes have rounder, thicker bodies than garter snakes.
- Garden snakes typically have stripes running down their sides, whereas garter snakes usually have spots.
If you’re still not sure, the best way to tell the difference is to ask a professional!
Physical Differences
Garter snakes and garden snakes are two of the most common types of snakes in North America. Both are relatively small, non-venomous snakes that can be found in a variety of habitats. While they share many similarities, there are also some physical differences that can help you tell them apart.
Garter snakes are typically longer than garden snakes, with adults averaging 2-3 feet in length. They also have narrower bodies and rounder heads than garden snakes. Their scales are usually patterned with three longitudinal stripes (one central stripe flanked by two lateral stripes), while garden snake scales are usually unmarked or have a checkered pattern.
In terms of habitat, garter snakes are more commonly found in wetter environments like marshes or streams, while garden snakes are more likely to be found in dryer habitats like fields or woods. Garter snakes are also more active during the day, while garden snakes are more active at night.
Habitat Differences
There are several ways to tell the difference between a garter and a garden snake. One is by their habitat. Garter snakes are often found in wetter areas, such as near ponds or streams. Garden snakes, on the other hand, are more likely to be found in drier areas, such as gardens or fields.
Another way to tell the difference between these two types of snakes is by their diet. Garter snakes typically eat amphibians, such as frogs or salamanders. Garden snakes usually eat insects, such as crickets or worms.
Finally, you can also tell these snakes apart by their appearance. Garter snakes are usually striped, while garden snakes are typically solid-colored. Garden snakes also tend to be smaller than garter snakes.
Reproduction Differences
Garter snakes and garden snakes are both common types of snakes found in North America. While they may look similar, there are some key differences between these two types of snakes.
For starters, garter snakes are typically larger than garden snakes. Garter snakes can grow to be up to 3 feet long, while garden snakes are usually only about 2 feet long.
Another key difference is that garter snakes have stripes running down the length of their bodies, while garden snakes do not. Garter snake stripes can be white, yellow, or green, and they typically have a black stripe running down the center of their backs. Garden snakes usually have solid-colored bodies with no stripes.
Finally, garter snakes typically live in damp environments like marshes or woodlands near streams or ponds. Garden snakes, on the other hand, prefer dryer habitats such as fields or gardens.
So, next time you see a snake slithering outside, look closely to see if it’s a garter or garden snake. With a little practice, you’ll be able to tell them apart with ease!
Diet Differences
Garter snakes and garden snakes may look similar, but there are some key differences in their appearance and diet that can help you tell them apart.
Garter snakes are typically smaller than garden snakes, with an average length of 2-3 feet. They also have narrower bodies and heads, and their scales are usually darker in color. As their name suggests, garter snakes are often found near bodies of water, where they hunt for fish, frogs, and other small aquatic prey.
In contrast, garden snakes are usually longer, with an average length of 4-5 feet. They have a wider body and head, and their scales are usually lighter in color. As their name suggests, garden snakes are often found in gardens and other green spaces, where they hunt for insects and other small terrestrial prey.
Both types of snakes are non-venomous, harmless to humans, and beneficial in controlling pests.
Tips For Identifying Each Type of Snake
There are three main ways to tell the difference between a garter and a garden snake: their habitat, appearance, and behavior.
Garter snakes can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and near water sources such as ponds and streams. They are usually black, brown, or green in color, with a white or yellow stripe running down the length of their body. Garter snakes are generally docile creatures that will not attack unless provoked.
Garden snakes, on the other hand, are typically found in more urban areas such as gardens, parks, and neighborhoods. They are usually lighter in color than garter snakes and lack the stripe down their back. Garden snakes are also more likely to be aggressive if they feel threatened.
If you come across a snake, it’s important to be cautious and act carefully. Always use appropriate safety equipment like thick gloves if you must handle the snake. It’s also a good idea to take pictures of the snake so you can look up its species later.
Are Garter Snakes Friendly to Humans?
Yes, garter snakes are friendly to humans. They are not venomous and pose no threat to us. In fact, they can be quite helpful in our gardens by eating pests like slugs and mice.
In addition, they are generally calm and docile. If you gently and respectfully handle them, they should not try to bite or fight back.
Are Garter Snakes Poisonous?
Garter snakes are not poisonous, but they can bite if they feel threatened. Garden snakes are not poisonous, but they are less likely to bite than garter snakes.
Can Garter Snakes Climb Walls?
Yes, garter snakes can climb walls. They are excellent climbers and can even climb vertical surfaces. However, they are not as good at climbing smooth surfaces as they are at climbing rough surfaces.
Garter snakes typically like to climb objects to find food and shelter. They also climb trees and walls, using their scales to grip the surface.
How To Keep Garter Snakes Away from Your Home?
If you are having trouble telling the difference between a garter snake and a garden snake, there are a few things you can look for. Garden snakes are usually brown or green, while garter snakes can be a variety of colors. Garden snakes are also typically thinner than garter snakes. Another way to tell the difference is by looking at their habitat. Garter snakes like to live in damp places like marshes or near streams, while garden snakes prefer drier environments such as gardens or fields.
If you want to keep garter snakes away from your home, you can do a few things. Make sure to seal any cracks or holes in your foundation and around doors and windows. Keep your yard clean and free of debris where snakes could hide. And if you have a pond on your property, make sure it has a secure cover that snakes cannot get under.
You can also use repellents like mothballs or spray repellants that contain naphthalene or sulfur. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when using these products. Finally, you can install snake-proof fencing around your yard to keep snakes from entering.
Safety Tips for Handling Snakes
When handling any snake, it is important to use extreme caution. Snakes are wild animals and can be dangerous, even if they are not poisonous. Here are some safety tips for handling snakes:
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling a snake.
- Do not handle a snake if you are pregnant or have an open wound.
- Do not handle a snake if you are feeling sick or have any cuts or scratches on your skin.
- If you must handle a snake, always support its body with both hands so that you can control its movements. Never pick up a snake by its tail.
- Be careful when placing a snake into a container or bag for transport. Make sure that the container is secure so that the snake cannot escape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, telling the difference between a garter and a garden snake isn’t always easy. However, with knowledge of their physical characteristics and behavior, you can identify them correctly. By paying attention to details like size, color patterns, head shape, and activity levels, you should be able to spot the differences between these two species in no time. With that said, we wish you luck with your wildlife observations!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is it Gardner or garter?
People often mistake two types of snakes for each other: the garter snake and the garden snake. Both are common snakes found in North America and can be found in various colors and patterns. So how can you tell them apart? The easiest way to tell the difference between garter and garden snakes is by size. Garter snakes are generally smaller than garden snakes. Also, garter snakes typically eat small insects and worms, while garden snakes will also eat amphibians and small mammals. Finally, garter snakes are more likely to be found near water sources like ponds or streams, while garden snakes prefer drier habitats like fields or gardens.
Why do they call it a garter snake?
One theory is that it’s because these snakes often hide in the folds of garments (such as garters), making them difficult to spot. Another theory is that the name comes from the fact that these snakes are often seen swimming in water (garters being a type of strap used to hold up socks). Whatever the reason for the name, it’s clear that these two types of snakes are easily confused!
What is the garden snake called?
The garden snake is a common name for the green snake. It is a non-venomous snake that can be found in many gardens around the world. The garden snake is not aggressive and will usually try to flee if it feels threatened.
What does it mean to see a garden snake?
Well, for starters, it means you’re in an area where these creatures are known to live. Garden snakes are typically found in gardens, fields, and other open spaces. They prefer warm climates and tend to be most active during the day. If you do come across a garden snake, there’s no need to worry. These snakes are not venomous and pose no danger to humans. In fact, they can be beneficial to have around as they help control pests like rodents and insects. So next time you see one of these slithering creatures, take a moment to appreciate them instead of running away in fear!