The snake commonly known as the “garden snake” is almost always the garter snake, belonging to the genus Thamnophis. These reptiles are widespread across North and Central America and are frequently encountered in yards and green spaces. While a garter snake can bite in self-defense, they are not considered dangerous to humans. Their defensive bite is mild, and the small amount of neurotoxin they possess poses no significant threat to people.
Identifying the “Garden Snake”
The garter snake, or Thamnophis, is one of the most common and adaptable snakes found on the continent. They are typically slender, with most adults measuring between 18 and 26 inches, though some individuals can reach up to 51 inches in length. Their coloration is highly variable, but they are recognized by a background of black, brown, or olive with three distinct light-colored longitudinal stripes running down the body. These stripes are often yellow, green, or white, with one stripe down the center of the back and one on each side.
A dark, checkered pattern may be visible between the stripes on the sides of the body in many species. Garter snakes have large, round eyes and keeled scales, which give them a slightly rough texture. They thrive in a wide range of environments, including woodlands, grasslands, and suburban yards, often preferring moist, grassy habitats near water sources. They are often found beneath protective cover such as logs, rocks, or garden debris.
Biting Behavior and Safety
Garter snakes will bite, but they do so almost exclusively in self-defense, such as when they are handled, cornered, or accidentally stepped on. The bite itself is usually a quick nip, resulting in a superficial scratch or a series of tiny pinpricks due to their small, backward-pointing teeth. They lack the specialized, hollow fangs of medically significant venomous snakes, making their bites ineffective for serious envenomation in humans.
Garter snakes produce a mild neurotoxin in their saliva, which is delivered via enlarged teeth at the back of their mouth. This toxin is primarily used to subdue their small prey, such as frogs and worms, and is not potent enough to cause serious harm to a person. If a person is bitten, the effects are generally limited to minor symptoms like localized pain, mild swelling, or slight bruising, comparable to a bee sting. The most important aftercare is to thoroughly clean the small wound to prevent bacterial infection, a risk present with any animal bite.
Encountering Garter Snakes
Garter snakes are typically shy animals that prefer to flee and avoid human contact whenever possible. They play a beneficial role in a garden’s ecosystem by preying on slugs, snails, insects, and small rodents, which helps control pest populations. Their presence can reduce the need for chemical pesticides in a yard.
If a garter snake is encountered, the best course of action is to simply leave it undisturbed. They will usually move on quickly if given space. If a snake needs to be moved from an undesirable location, gently coaxing it into a container using a broom or a stick is safer than using bare hands. Avoid picking them up, as direct handling is the most common reason for a defensive bite. Maintaining a clean yard by removing piles of debris, tall weeds, and woodpiles can help reduce the chances of a close encounter.