Species Reptiles & AmphibiansBlack-necked Garter Snake

Black-necked Garter Snake

Thamnophis cyrtopsis

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Black-necked Garter Snake (Thamnophis cyrtopsis)

The Black-necked Garter Snake is named for the large black blotches on its neck. It is strongly associated with rocky streams in the arid Southwest. Highly aquatic, it dives into water immediately when disturbed.

Habitat
Permanent rocky streams and springs in desert mountains
Diet
Frogs, tadpoles, and fish
How common
Common

Best time to see a Black-necked Garter Snake

The best time to see a Black-necked Garter Snake is June–September, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 3,075 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Black-necked Garter Snake sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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