Garter snakes, common and non-venomous reptiles, inhabit diverse environments across North and Central America, from forests and grasslands to suburban gardens and wetlands. These slender snakes, belonging to the genus Thamnophis, vary in appearance, displaying longitudinal stripes. As carnivores, their diet primarily consists of small creatures like earthworms, amphibians, and fish. Garter snakes are an integral part of the food web, serving as prey for numerous animals.
Avian Predators
Birds of prey are major predators of garter snakes. Hawks, including red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks, frequently target garter snakes, swooping to capture them with talons. Kestrels, smaller raptors, also hunt garter snakes, hovering before diving for prey. These hunters rely on keen eyesight to spot snakes moving through vegetation.
Other bird species prey on garter snakes, especially near aquatic habitats. Herons, such as the Great Blue Heron and Black-Crowned Night Heron, snatch them from the water’s edge or shallow wetlands. These wading birds may even dunk the snake in water to facilitate swallowing. Crows and shrikes consume garter snakes.
Mammalian Predators
Mammalian species are opportunistic predators of garter snakes. Raccoons, adaptable and omnivorous, readily prey on garter snakes, especially where habitats overlap like wetlands and woodlands. They use their keen sense of smell and dexterous paws to locate and subdue snakes, often overturning rocks and logs. Garter snakes are a convenient protein source for raccoons due to their small size and commonality.
Other carnivorous mammals prey on garter snakes. Foxes, coyotes, weasels, and mink are predators, often encountering them during hunting. Skunks and opossums may consume garter snakes while scavenging. Domestic animals, particularly cats, pose a significant threat to garter snake populations in suburban areas.
Reptilian and Amphibian Predators
Garter snakes face predation from larger reptiles and amphibians. Kingsnakes (Lampropeltis getula), known for their snake-eating tendencies, are major predators, consuming individuals up to two-thirds their length. These constrictors subdue prey by wrapping coils. Larger rattlesnakes and bullsnakes may also prey on garter snakes.
Large amphibians, particularly bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus), consume smaller garter snakes, especially juveniles. While garter snakes can prey on smaller bullfrogs or their tadpoles, adult bullfrogs are predators of neonate garter snakes. The size and age of both animals determine the outcome. Cannibalism can occur within garter snake populations, particularly among larger individuals preying on smaller ones.