(Thamnophis s. sirtalis)

{Eastern Garter Snake}

IDENTIFICATION: A medium-size, thin snake with variable dorsal coloration ranging from olive green to brown, with three longitudinal light stripes, at times interspersed with a checkerboard pattern of black squares. The lateral stripes are confined to the second and third dorsal scale rows. The belly is greenish-yellow with black mottling. Females are considerably larger than males. Adult total length 410-1070 mm.

The eastern garter snake is Connecticut's most widespread and ubiquitous serpent, found from sea level to the highest elevations of the state, and from urban areas to wilderness. This species is presently secure with Connecticut.

Snakes | Amphibians and Reptiles in Connecticut