Garter snakes are common reptiles found across North America, from central Canada to Costa Rica. Their widespread presence often leads to questions about handling them. These snakes are generally harmless to humans. Understanding them and appropriate interaction can help foster coexistence.
Identifying a Garter Snake
Accurately identifying a garter snake is the first step before any interaction. These snakes belong to the genus Thamnophis and share key features despite varied appearances. They have a slender build, keeled scales, and often display three brightly colored stripes (yellow, green, or brown) running lengthwise down their bodies. Body color can vary, appearing black, brown, gray, or green, and some may also have irregular red spots or checkered patterns.
Garter snakes typically range from 18 to 51 inches (46 to 130 cm) long, with females often larger than males. Their heads are generally wider than their necks, and they possess large, round eyes. These adaptable snakes inhabit diverse environments such as forests, grasslands, and suburban areas, particularly near water sources like ponds or streams.
Considerations Before Handling
Before handling a garter snake, consider the impact on both the snake and yourself. Handling can be a stressful experience for the snake, as it perceives humans as potential predators. This stress might lead to defensive behaviors, even from a generally docile animal. Repeated or improper handling could cause injury or significant fear for the snake.
For humans, while garter snakes are not considered dangerous, there are minor risks. They possess a mild neurotoxic venom and small teeth, but they lack an effective delivery system for significant harm to humans. A bite is typically compared to a bee sting, causing only minor irritation, swelling, or bruising. A more common defense mechanism is the release of a foul-smelling, musky secretion from a gland near their cloaca. Any animal bite also carries a minimal risk of bacterial infection, so proper hygiene afterward is advisable.
How to Handle a Garter Snake Safely
If handling a garter snake becomes necessary, such as moving it from a dangerous location, approach it slowly and calmly. Sudden movements can startle the snake and provoke a defensive reaction. When lifting, support the snake’s entire body rather than just grasping it by the head or tail, as this provides stability and prevents injury to the snake. Allowing the snake to gently coil around your hands can help it feel secure.
Should the snake bite, it will likely not cause serious harm, and the snake may not hold on. If it does, gently push its head forward to disengage its backward-pointing teeth without injuring its mouth. After handling, release the snake promptly in a safe, appropriate habitat nearby, like a garden bed or grassy area. Always wash your hands thoroughly to prevent bacterial transmission.
When Not to Handle a Garter Snake
Avoid handling a garter snake in specific situations for both its well-being and human safety. Do not handle a snake if you are unsure of its species, as misidentification could lead to contact with a more dangerous reptile. If a garter snake appears injured, lethargic, or unusually aggressive (hissing or coiling tightly), leave it undisturbed.
Avoid handling snakes that are shedding, as their vision is impaired and they may be more irritable or defensive. Similarly, do not handle a snake that has recently eaten, as it can cause them to regurgitate their meal. If there is no clear reason to handle the snake, or if you feel uncomfortable or fearful, observe it from a distance or gently guide it away using a long object like a broom.