Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🐍

Are you considering adding a lively, unique snake to your collection? The Garter Snake might be the perfect fit. Often underappreciated and overshadowed by more popular species, these snakes offer a distinctive experience for pet owners. In this pet care article, we’ll explore why Garter Snakes deserve a spot in your home, with expert tips on how to care for them. Here’s why they make such great companions:

Ease of Handling: 3/5

Garter Snakes are active and energetic creatures, making them a joy to observe but slightly challenging to handle. Unlike more sedentary species like Ball Pythons, Garter Snakes are always on the move. They tend to wiggle and slither energetically when picked up, which can be a bit startling for beginners. While their activity level adds a playful charm, it does require a firm but gentle touch during handling.

One potential downside is their propensity to musk when frightened. Musk is a smelly discharge that Garter Snakes release from their cloaca, and it can linger on your hands even after washing. Though less common in well-handled, captive-bred snakes, it’s a behavior to be aware of, especially if you’re considering adopting a wild-caught specimen.

On the bright side, Garter Snakes are generally non-aggressive. They rarely bite, but even when they do, their mild venom is harmless to humans, causing only minor swelling in rare cases. Overall, handling a Garter Snake can be a fun, dynamic experience, but it’s not for everyone, especially those who prefer more relaxed reptiles.

Care and Maintenance: 4/5

Garter Snakes are relatively low-maintenance and adaptable pets, earning high marks in this category. One of their standout features is their diverse diet. Unlike many other snakes that require rodents, Garter Snakes can thrive on a diet of fish and worms, making them a great choice for owners who are squeamish about feeding rodents. Many captive-bred Garter Snakes can also be transitioned to a rodent-based diet, which is often more convenient and less messy.

Their feeding habits are another plus. Garter Snakes are enthusiastic eaters and almost never go on hunger strikes. You can even offer live fish in their water bowl, creating a mini “fishing expedition” that’s both entertaining for the snake and fascinating to watch.

In terms of enclosure, Garter Snakes don’t need anything too elaborate. A secure tank with a proper lid, a water bowl large enough for soaking, and a few hides will suffice. Since these snakes are active, providing a spacious enclosure is ideal. They also tend to defecate more frequently than less active snakes, so be prepared for slightly more cleaning.

Temperature and humidity requirements are easy to manage. Keep their enclosure between 75-85°F, with a basking spot of 88-90°F. Humidity is straightforward, and Garter Snakes generally shed without issues. Their needs are simple, but their high activity level means they require a bit more upkeep compared to other beginner-friendly species.

Health and Durability: 5/5

Garter Snakes are among the hardiest snakes you can own. These resilient reptiles adapt well to various environments and are forgiving of minor mistakes in husbandry. As long as they are fed regularly, given fresh water, and kept at appropriate temperatures, they tend to thrive.

That said, their small size and high activity levels come with unique risks. They are more delicate than larger snakes, so they should be handled gently. Rough handling can injure them, and their agility makes it easy for them to escape poorly secured enclosures. Always ensure their tank has a tightly fitted lid or a locking mechanism to prevent accidental escapes.

Despite these considerations, Garter Snakes are remarkably robust and rarely succumb to illness or stress if their basic needs are met. This makes them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced keepers.

Availability: 3/5

While wild Garter Snakes are ubiquitous in many parts of North America, finding a captive-bred one can be surprisingly challenging. The species’ prevalence in the wild has led to their underappreciation in the reptile hobby, meaning fewer breeders focus on them compared to more exotic species.

That said, reputable breeders like Don’s Garter Snakes offer a variety of morphs and species that are far more stunning than the average snake you might encounter in your backyard. These include albino and California red-sided varieties, which feature vibrant colors and patterns that are sure to stand out in any collection.

If you’re looking for a truly unique Garter Snake, it’s worth seeking out a breeder. Captive-bred snakes are healthier, less likely to musk, and better adapted to life as a pet. While they may not be as commonly found in pet stores as Ball Pythons or Corn Snakes, their availability is growing as their reputation improves.

Initial Cost: 4/5

Garter Snakes are an affordable option for those looking to own a pet snake. Their enclosures don’t need to be as large or complex as those required for bigger species, which helps keep costs down. A standard 20-gallon tank with a secure lid, a water bowl, some hides, and a heating pad with a thermostat is all you need to get started.

The snakes themselves are reasonably priced, especially wild-type specimens. Morphs or rare species may cost more, but they’re still cheaper than many other snakes with comparable beauty and uniqueness. Since Garter Snakes are small, their food requirements are modest, further reducing long-term expenses.

However, be sure to invest in a high-quality lid or secure enclosure. Garter Snakes are escape artists, and a lost snake can quickly turn into a costly and stressful situation.

Final Thoughts: 3.8/5

The Garter Snake is a fascinating and underrated choice for reptile enthusiasts. Their active nature, diverse diet, and vibrant morphs make them a unique addition to any collection. While they might not be as easygoing as Ball Pythons or Corn Snakes, their hardiness and adaptability more than compensate for their quirks.

If you’re looking for a low-cost, easy-to-care-for snake with a lively personality, the Garter Snake is a fantastic option. Just be prepared for a bit of extra cleanup and invest in a secure enclosure to prevent escapes.

Have you ever owned a Garter Snake? Share your experiences and pet care tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear your stories! Don’t forget to explore more of our pet reviews and expert tips on reptile care! 🐍