Western Terrestrial Garter Snake

Thamnophis elegans

The Western Terrestrial Garter Snake is one of the most variable snakes in North America, with many recognized subspecies. It is more terrestrial than other garter snakes and can tolerate cooler temperatures.

Habitat

Meadows, forests, and rocky areas near water in western North America

Diet

Slugs, earthworms, frogs, and small rodents

How common

Common

Recent Western Terrestrial Garter Snake sightings near you

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

Spot a Western Terrestrial Garter Snake? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.

Get Huck — free

More reptiles & amphibians

African Clawed Frog

Xenopus laevis

Allegheny Mountain Dusky Salamander

Desmognathus ochrophaeus

Alligator Snapping Turtle

Macrochelys temminckii

American Alligator

Alligator mississippiensis

American Bullfrog

Lithobates catesbeianus