Checkered Garter Snake
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Reptilia Order: Squamata Family: Colubridae Genus: Thamnophis
Species: Thamnophis marcianus
The Checkered Garter Snake is among the smaller species of snake on the Regents Campus, but it has an eye-catching, checkered pattern that makes it hard to miss. It can be found near or in water such as the ponds at the Regents Nature Center or the retention pond, as well as under rocks and logs, especially after a rainstorm. When chased, the Checkered Garter Snake will flee to the nearest water source, if available. If handled, it may emit a foul-smelling musk, thrash about, or bite, and although it may leave behind superficial bite marks, it is not venomous and will not cause serious damage. It may also flatten its head to make it look triangular or get into an “S” strike position in an attempt to mimic venomous snakes. Its tongue is bright red in color with black on the tip. Depending on the habitat, it can be either nocturnal or diurnal. To stay warm, it hibernates in large groups that can grow to be around 100 members large.
Conservation status: Least concern
Description: Usually a dark greenish color, with a distinct, checkerboard pattern on its sides and a light center stripe that runs from head to tail; has a light underside and red tongue
Size: Ranges from 14 to 20 inches in length
Diet: Small frogs, toads, fish, lizards, earthworms, and small rodents
Habitat: Hillsides and grasslands near water or residential neighborhoods; often found under rocks or logs after a rainstorm
Defensive behavior: Relatively docile, but will bite if harassed and flare its head to look triangular; thrashes wildly and defecates when handled
Credit source: Tucson Herpetological Society
