Do Garter Snakes Make Good Pets?
Garter snakes might not get as much attention as ball pythons or corn snakes in the pet snake world, but they are quietly one of the best snake species you can own. If you have ever watched a garter snake zip through the grass in your backyard and wondered what it would be like to keep one, the answer is: it is a really good time. Here is everything you need to know about garter snakes as pets.
Why Garter Snakes Make Great Pets
Garter snakes have a lot going for them as pet snakes. They are small (most species stay between 2 and 3 feet), active during the day, curious, and surprisingly personable for a reptile. Unlike many snake species that spend most of their time hiding, garter snakes are active explorers that are genuinely fun to watch. They are always investigating something, whether it is a new piece of decor in their enclosure or the hand that just lifted the lid.
One of the biggest advantages of garter snakes is their diet. While most pet snakes eat rodents, garter snakes thrive on a diet of fish and earthworms. For people who are uncomfortable with the idea of keeping frozen mice in their freezer, garter snakes offer a way to enjoy snake ownership without that particular hurdle. A trip to the bait shop for nightcrawlers feels a lot different than thawing out a mouse.
Garter snakes are also one of the very few snake species that can be kept communally. While most snakes should be housed individually, garter snakes can live together in groups as long as the enclosure is large enough and there are plenty of hiding spots, basking areas, and food for everyone. Watching a group of garter snakes interact is one of the unique pleasures of keeping this species.
Temperament and Handling
Garter snakes are quick, active snakes that can be a bit squirmy when first handled. They are not as naturally calm as ball pythons or rosy boas, but with regular, gentle handling, most garter snakes settle down and become quite tame. Captive bred individuals are generally much calmer than wild caught snakes from the start.
One thing to be aware of is musking. When frightened, garter snakes can release a foul smelling secretion from glands near their tail. This is a defense mechanism that wild garter snakes use to deter predators, and it is about as unpleasant as it sounds. The good news is that most captive bred garter snakes that are handled regularly stop musking fairly quickly once they realize you are not a threat.
Garter snake bites are rare and completely harmless. While garter snakes are technically mildly venomous, their venom is far too weak to affect humans. A bite from a garter snake feels like a small pinch and is over before you know it.
Care Requirements
Garter snakes are relatively easy to care for. A 20 to 30 gallon enclosure works well for a single adult, with larger enclosures needed for groups. They need a temperature gradient from about 72 degrees on the cool side to 85 degrees on the warm side, with a basking spot around 88 to 90 degrees. A shallow water dish large enough for soaking is essential, as garter snakes enjoy spending time in water.
Feeding is straightforward. A diet of earthworms (nightcrawlers), fish pieces (tilapia, salmon, or silversides), and occasionally thawed frozen pinkies for variety provides complete nutrition. Feed juvenile garter snakes every 3 to 4 days and adults every 5 to 7 days. Always avoid feeder fish that contain thiaminase (like goldfish), as this enzyme destroys vitamin B1 and can cause serious health problems over time.
Species to Consider
There are over 35 species of garter snakes, but a few stand out as particularly good pets. The common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) is widely available in many beautiful color variations, including red, blue, and melanistic morphs. The checkered garter snake (Thamnophis marcianus) is calm and attractive. The plains garter snake (Thamnophis radix) is another popular choice. For the most colorful option, look into the San Francisco garter snake or the flame garter snake morph.
Always buy captive bred garter snakes rather than wild caught. Captive bred animals are healthier, calmer, better acclimated to captive conditions, and free from the parasites that commonly affect wild caught snakes. Reputable breeders and reptile expos are the best places to find quality captive bred garter snakes.
Are garter snakes good for beginners?
Yes, garter snakes are excellent beginner snakes. They are small, easy to care for, eat a non rodent diet, and are active and interesting to observe. Captive bred individuals tame down quickly with regular handling.
Do garter snakes bite?
Garter snake bites are rare and harmless. They may bite defensively when first handled, but the bite is comparable to a small pinch. With regular handling, most garter snakes stop biting entirely. Their mild venom poses no threat to humans.
Can you keep multiple garter snakes together?
Yes, garter snakes are one of the few snake species that can be housed communally. Make sure the enclosure is large enough with multiple hiding spots, basking areas, and water sources. Always feed them separately to prevent competition and accidental injury.