Quick answer
Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are reptiles found across North America. One of North America's most common and widespread snakes. Adults typically weigh About 150 g (5 oz), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live 4–10 years in the wild. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Meadows, marshes, and gardens across North America, one of the most widespread snakes on the continent.
Key takeaway
Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are reptiles found across North America. One of North America's most common and widespread snakes. Adults typically weigh About 150 g (5 oz), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live 4–10 years in the wild. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Meadows, marshes, and gardens across North America, one of the most widespread snakes on the continent.
Garter Snake overview
Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is a reptile listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight About 150 g (5 oz); lifespan around 4–10 years in the wild.
Garter Snake ecology
Diet: Carnivore. Habitat: Meadows, marshes, woodlands, and gardens. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Garter Snakes and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild garter snakes are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Garter Snake profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Garter Snakes inhabit Meadows, marshes, and gardens across North America, one of the most widespread snakes on the continent. Their preferred habitat includes meadows, marshes, woodlands, and gardens, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence a
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult garter snakes typically measure about 0.7 m in length and weigh About 150 g (5 oz). They can sprint at up to 5 km/h (3 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Garter Snakes are known for one of north america's most common and widespread snakes — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Garter Snake FAQs
What are key facts about garter snakes?
Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are reptiles found across North America. One of North America's most common and widespread snakes. Adults typically weigh About 150 g (5 oz), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live 4–10 years in the wild. They feed on carnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Meadows, marshes, and gardens across North America, one of the most widespread snakes on the continent.
What is the scientific name of the garter snake?
Thamnophis sirtalis — used in research and conservation listings for garter snakes.
What do garter snakes eat?
Garter Snakes are described as carnivores, with seasonal and regional variation in Meadows, marshes, woodlands, and gardens.
Where do garter snakes live?
They are associated with Meadows, marshes, woodlands, and gardens. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of garter snakes?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.