by Stephanie Baumgartner

Created on: September 08, 2010

Garter snakes are one of the most wonderful and easy to keep snakes in the reptile hobby.  With over 75 species and subspecies from which to choose, you're sure to find one to which you are drawn.  Easy to feed, easy to maintain, and remaining a manageable size, these little beauties of the serpent world make a great addition to anyone's reptile collection.

The various species of Garter Snake range from Alaska into central America.  Most can be maintained at room temperature, but will thrive with a heat source providing opportunities to thermoregulate (change their body temperature by moving into a warmer or cooler area).  They are diurnal (active during the day) which may be one of their biggest benefits as a pet.  They are awake and active when most owners are awake to watch their antics. 

Garters are extremely active and curious, and will make use of all of the space you give them, burrowing, climbing, and taking breaks to bask in the warmth of the hot end or nap in the cool of a hiding spot.  Best of all, these snakes are gregarious, and, with few exceptions, can be kept in groups, unlike almost all other snakes.  Most are avid swimmers, and will often be seen enjoying a dip in their water bowl if one large enough is provided.

In order to properly care for your garter snake, you'll need to address the following factors in their husbandry:

1. Enclosure:  Minimum cage size for snakes is usually figured by the following: tank length + tank width = snake length.  This allows snakes to fully stretch out their lung area allowing for proper breathing.  However, Garter Snakes will use all the space you give them, so you can put a snake in a much larger than minimum tank. 

Additionally, Garters are active climbers, so will use any height and climbing surfaces.  A great tank for a baby to juvenile is a standard 10 gallon tank, and pair of adult snakes would love a 40 gallon tank. 

As active as they are, a very secure lid is necessary.  Screen lids are necessary for fresh air flow.  Many screen lids are available, some even integrated with locking features.  If you choose separate screen lid, make sure you use the provided clamps and secure tightly.

2. Substrate-  Substrate is the hobby term for bedding.  Many options are available, from standard paper towels or newspaper to blended bark mixes.  Never use sand, gravel or pebbles. 

Paper towels and newspaper are

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